EU deploys new sanctions on Iran over Hormuz restrictions

The Hormozgan Provincial Command of the IRGC Navy have been sanctioned by the Council of the EU, along with the IRGC Navy’s deputy commander of political affairs, Mohammad Akbarzadeh, and Hamid Hosseini, a representative of Iran’s Oil, Gas and Petrochemical Products Exporters’ Union.

The EU said Iran undermines freedom of navigation by attacking vessels and enforcing a toll system in the Strait of Hormuz, alleging that Akbarzadeh threatens to use missiles or drones against vessels transiting the strait. “In his capacity, Hosseini promotes the policy of submitting, undergoing assessment, and paying transit fees to Iranian authorities for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz,” an EU press release said.

Sanctioned entities are subject to an asset freeze, an EU travel ban, and it is prohibited to provide them with funds or economic resources.

The application of sanctions follows a decision on 22 May this year to expand the EU’s sanctions regime on Iranian support for Russia’s war in Ukraine to also target those involved in Iran’s curtailing of freedom of navigation in the Middle East.

“Ministers were clear today that Iran's actions are unacceptable,” said Kaja Kallas, high representative for foreign affairs and security policy and vice-president of the European Commission. “In response, EU Member States in Brussels today approved sanctions against the Iranian individuals and entities involved in disrupting transit through the Strait of Hormuz. This is the first time the EU has applied its new freedom of navigation sanctions regime, and where necessary [it] will apply it again.”      The announcement comes after Iran and Israel exchanged attacks overnight; Iran said it carried out military action due to Israeli air strikes on Lebanon on 7 March.    “Our operation Aspides is making a crucial contribution protecting shipping in the Red Sea. The latest threat by Houthis to target ships also in the Red Sea shows how important this mission is,” said Kallas.