Iran has announced sanctions on more than two dozen American and British individuals and entities, accusing them of supporting Israel’s “terrorist acts” and human rights violations against Palestinians. The decision, reported by the Iranian state news agency IRNA, comes in response to recent sanctions imposed on Iran by the UK, US, and Canada following an attack on Israel earlier this month.
Iran’s sanctions target six American companies, including major defense contractors like Lockheed Martin Corporation and General Dynamics, as well as other entities such as Skydio Engineering Company, Chevron Corporation, and Kharon Company. The move underscores escalating tensions between Iran, Israel, and Western powers.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry, in a statement on Thursday, accused the blacklisted individuals and entities of aiding Israel in its actions against regional and international peace. The sanctions are based on Iran’s “Law on Countering the Violation of Human Rights and Adventurous and Terrorist Activities of the United States in the Region” (2017), particularly focusing on support and financing for Israel’s alleged terrorist acts and human rights violations against Palestinians.
Among the individuals targeted by Iran’s sanctions are notable figures such as Jason Greenblatt, former advisor on Israel to Donald Trump; Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute; and Clifford D. May, founder and president of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD). The UK entities and individuals facing sanctions include Royal Air Force Akrotiri in Cyprus, UK Royal Navy vessels, and defense-related companies like Elbit Systems and Parker Meggitt.
Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs outlined the measures to be taken in accordance with the imposed sanctions, which include blocking of accounts and transactions in Iranian financial systems, freezing assets within Iran’s jurisdiction, and prohibiting visa issuance and entry into Iran.
The tensions between Iran and Western powers have heightened following recent events, including Iran’s attack on Israel in response to alleged provocations and subsequent sanctions imposed by the US and its allies targeting entities involved in Iran’s military programs, particularly in the UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) sector.
The situation underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East, with ongoing confrontations and retaliatory actions impacting diplomatic relations and regional stability. Efforts to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues remain crucial amid the evolving dynamics in the region.