England, Britain – The British government imposed new sanctions on Iranian citizen Ali Akbar Ansari on Thursday. It accuses him of playing a pivotal role in providing financial and economic support to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. London also accuses him of carrying out activities aimed at destabilizing the United Kingdom and other countries.
The British Foreign Office stated in a statement carried by Reuters that Ansari “facilitated and provided economic resources for hostile activities by the Iranian government.” These activities include providing financial and logistical support to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps. The statement added that these activities “are part of Tehran’s ongoing efforts to fund entities involved in external operations that threaten regional and international security.”
According to the statement, the new sanctions include freezing all of Ansari’s assets within the United Kingdom. They also prohibit dealings with any financial or economic institutions affiliated with him. London confirmed that these measures are part of a systematic deterrent against individuals involved in supporting terrorism or destabilizing the world.
The British Foreign Office explained that the move “reflects the government’s determination to confront Iranian threats,” particularly in light of increasing Western intelligence reports about Iran’s attempts to expand its influence through economic and security proxies beyond its borders.
This measure is part of a broader package of British and European sanctions imposed on Iranian officials and companies since 2023. The sanctions were imposed due to Tehran’s support for armed groups in the Middle East, as well as accusations of carrying out cyber and espionage operations in Europe.
The British government confirmed that “any individual or entity involved in financing or supporting the activities of the Revolutionary Guard will face strict measures. This comes within the framework of London’s commitment to protecting its national security and maintaining the stability of its international partners.”
