France, Germany, and UK to impose sanctions on Iran over alleged missile transfers to Russia
France, Germany, and Britain announced plans to impose sanctions on Iran after accusing it of supplying ballistic missiles to Russia.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, the three nations confirmed they had evidence that Iran had transferred the missiles, which Russia is likely to use in Ukraine within weeks.
The European powers stated they would take immediate steps, including suspending bilateral air services agreements with Iran and imposing sanctions on the Iranian airline involved.
They also vowed to continue sanctioning key entities and individuals involved in Iran’s ballistic missile program and the transfer of weapons to Russia.
In a related incident, The U.S. Treasury announced sanctions on 10 individuals and 6 entities in Iran and Russia for Iran’s support of Russia’s war in Ukraine.
The sanctions also targeted three companies, including an Iranian airline, and designated five ships as prohibited property.
Earlier, the U.S. expressed its support, with White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby confirming that Washington would join its allies in imposing punitive measures against Iran.
He added that further sanctions would follow if necessary. U.S. officials also accused Russia of providing nuclear technology to Iran, raising concerns about global security and a potential nuclear arms race in the region.
The European Union warned that Iran’s missile exports represent a significant escalation in military support for Russia’s war on Ukraine and pose a direct threat to European security.
EU spokesperson Peter Stano emphasized that the bloc would respond strongly to this violation of international law.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry rejected the accusations, calling them “ugly propaganda” designed to distract from the U.S. and Western support for what it described as the “genocide” in Gaza, where Israel is fighting Hamas.
Iran has consistently denied providing weapons to Russia for use in the Ukraine war, while Russia has remained silent on the matter.
