Iran – Expansion of sanctions targeting Iran’s military support for Russia (14 May 2024)

France welcomes the decision by the Council of the European Union to expand sanctions targeting Iran’s military support for Russia. This decision expands sanctions to the production and transfer of Iranian drones and missiles. It will also cover all Iranian transfers to Russia and the Near and Middle East.

This mechanism will protect Europe’s interests at a time when Iran continues to materially assist Russia in its war of aggression against Ukraine, including its attacks on civilian populations. Recent allegations of Iranian ballistic missile transfers to Russia would represent an unacceptable escalation. If these transfers are confirmed, we and our partners are determined to respond with particular firmness.

This decision will also respond to a major security threat to stability in the Near and Middle East. Illegal transfers of Iranian drones and missiles to regional groups fuel destabilizing actions that represent a serious threat to our partners in the region.