The European Union has imposed sanctions on 19 Iranian officials and entities because of their involvement in severe human rights abuses. This decision follows the repression in Iran, partly in response to the death of Iranian Mahsa Amini.
The sanctioned individuals include government officials, judges, and members of the security forces accused of arbitrary arrests, torture, and executions. EU officials want to hold those responsible accountable, said an EU spokesperson. As far as is known, no charges have yet been filed at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.
Sanctions List
Despite the new European sanctions, Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has (so far?) not been placed on the sanctions list. This has raised questions about the effectiveness of the measures and whether they will influence Iranian government policy.
Promotion
Moreover, concerns are growing among European countries. Italian Prime Minister Meloni has sharply criticized the US and Israeli interventions in Iran. She describes the attacks as a dangerous trend outside the framework of international law.
In Spain, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has downgraded his assessment of Israel and recalled the ambassador. This decision highlights the deterioration of relations between the two countries and comes in response to military actions against Iran.
Naval Mines
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz is critical. The sea passage is a crucial corridor for oil and gas supplies, especially to Asia but also to EU countries. Tensions there have increased, with attacks on ships and the deployment of US military actions against Iranian naval vessels. Washington says the Iranians are laying mines.
The US/Israeli war against Iran is leading to rising energy prices, with a notable increase in the cost of oil and gas since the start of the conflict. The costs are already heavily felt in Europe, causing broader economic concerns.