Brussels, Belgium – The European Union Council announced new sanctions against senior Iranian officials, including Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni and Attorney General Mohammad Movahedi Azad.
In addition to Judge Iman Afshari, on the grounds of what he described
as “involvement in the violent suppression of peaceful protests and human rights violations.”
The council explained in an official statement that the three individuals were
directly involved in arbitrary arrests of political activists and human rights defenders.
This is in addition to their role in pursuing dissidents and suppressing protests that Iran has witnessed in recent times.
Human rights violations inside Iran
European sanctions include freezing assets located within EU countries,
along with travel bans and prohibitions on entry into member states’ territories.
This is part of the EU’s policy to hold those responsible for human rights abuses inside Iran accountable.
The council stressed that this step comes within the framework
of the European Union’s firm stance in support of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
He stressed that the union will continue to use the tools at its disposal
to hold those responsible for serious violations accountable.
It also supports the legitimate demands of the Iranian people for freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
These sanctions come at a time of escalating European and international criticism of Iran’s human rights record.
Especially with regard to the security and judicial handling of popular protests,
harsh prison sentences, and legal procedures targeting opponents and activists.
Continuing political pressure on Tehran
It is worth noting that the European Union has imposed several rounds of
sanctions on Iranian figures and institutions in recent years.
This included security and judicial officials, in connection with similar human rights cases.
Observers confirm that the new sanctions reflect continued European political pressure on Tehran, amid stalled dialogue on human rights issues.
Concerns are growing about the deteriorating internal situation,
amid repeated European calls for Iranian authorities to adhere
to international standards and respect the rights of their citizens.
