EU tightens sanctions on Iran over missile deliveries to Russia
On Monday, during a meeting in Luxembourg, the foreign ministers of EU member states decided to impose sanctions on Iran due to the delivery of ballistic missiles to Russia, according to an EU source.
Restrictions will cover individuals and institutions
The sanctions will target individuals and institutions responsible for supplying missiles. The list of those affected by the restrictions will be presented once published in the EU Official Journal. The restrictions will not concern Iran's actions in the Middle East.
Attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine
It was emphasized that Russia uses Iranian missiles and drones to attack Ukrainian civilian targets, including critical infrastructure. "This transfer poses a direct threat to European security," said EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell in September, adding that the EU had repeatedly warned Iran against supplying weapons to Russia.
Close relations between Iran and Russia
Iran and Russia have long maintained close economic relations, which intensified after Moscow launched a full-scale aggression against Ukraine in February 2022. The Kremlin did not deny reports in September about the import of missiles from Iran.
No denial from the Kremlin, official position of Iran
Vladimir Putin's spokesman did not deny, at a press conference when asked about arms deliveries from Iran. "This type of information is not always true," said Dmitry Peskov regarding the reports about the missiles. However, attention was drawn to the fact that he did not deny it. Peskov added that Iran is an important partner for the Kremlin, and Russia cooperates with it "in all fields, including the most sensitive ones."
Information about weapons deliveries to Russia was officially confirmed by the Iranian side. A member of the Iranian parliament's national security committee, Ahmad Bakhshayesh Ardestani, admitted that Russia received Iranian ballistic missiles. "We have to engage in barter trade to acquire what we need, including soybeans and wheat. Part of the exchange involves sending missiles, and another part involves providing military drones to Russia," Ardestani said in an interview with the Iranian newspaper "Didban Iran."
At the same time, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that his country has never accepted Russia's aggression on Ukrainian territory. He also said he is ready for talks regarding the war.
"We have never accepted Russia's aggression on Ukrainian territory," Pezeshkian said during a press briefing at the UN General Assembly. The Iranian president confirmed readiness for dialogue with Europe and the United States on the war in Ukraine.
