EU imposes sanctions on Iran over missile transfers 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, citing an EU source.
Restrictions will cover individuals and institutions
The sanctions will target individuals and institutions responsible for supplying missiles. Once published in the EU Official Journal, the list of those affected by the restrictions will be presented. The restrictions will not concern Iran's actions in the Middle East.
Attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine
It was emphasised that Russia uses Iranian missiles and drones to attack Ukrainian civilian targets, including critical infrastructure. This transfer poses a direct threat to European security, described 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 in September did not deny reports about the import of missiles from Iran.
No denial from the Kremlin, official position of Iran
Vladimir Putin's spokesman did not deny when asked about arms deliveries from Iran at a press conference. "We have seen this report. Not every time such information is 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.
The Iranian side officially confirmed information about weapons deliveries to Russia. A member of the Iranian parliament's national security committee, Ahmad Bakhshayesh Ardestani, admitted that Russia received Iranian ballistic missiles. "We must resort to barter to meet our needs, including importing soybeans and wheat. Part of the barter involves sending missiles, and another part involves dispatching 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 approved of Russian aggression against Ukrainian territory," Pezeshkian said during a press briefing at the UN General Assembly. The Iranian president confirmed readiness for dialogue with Europe and the US on the war in Ukraine.
