US Imposes New Sanctions on Iran Over Ballistic Missile Deliveries to Russia

The United States has announced new sanctions on Iran in response to the country’s decision to supply ballistic missiles to Russia, despite Western warnings. US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken made the announcement during a visit to London, citing the need to address Iran’s “malign influence” in the region.

An Alarming Increase in Tensions

Blinken warned that Russia is expected to use the missiles in its war against Ukraine in the coming weeks, and that Moscow shares technology with Tehran, including in the nuclear field. He emphasized that the US is committed to tackling Iran’s influence in the Middle East and Ukraine.

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy echoed Blinken’s concerns, stating that the UK and US are “completely united” on the need to address Iran’s influence. He added that the UK would not comment on “operational matters” when asked if Britain would give Ukraine permission to use British long-range missiles against targets in Russia.

European Response

The European Union has also condemned Iran’s actions, with EU foreign policy spokesman Peter Stano stating that the bloc would impose a “harsh response” on Iran. The EU has provided a list of targeted measures to its member states, which would need to be adopted unanimously to come into force.

Germany, France, and the UK have announced that they would impose sanctions on Iran Air and end bilateral agreements on air transport services. They have also called on Tehran to immediately end its aid to Russia in its war against Ukraine.

Ukraine’s Response

Ukraine has welcomed the sanctions, but has also called for more action. The chief of staff of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, has stated that imposing sanctions on Iran is not enough and that allies should allow Kiev to strike with Western weapons inside Russia.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has promised a strong international push against any power that helps Russia in its military actions. He has emphasized that Ukraine will do everything to protect its country and citizens, and to consolidate the world for a firm response to the incitement of war.

Moscow and Tehran’s Response

Russia has announced that it has almost completed the necessary procedures for signing a new bilateral agreement with Iran. The Secretary of the Russian Security Council, Sergei Shoigu, has stated that the agreement is expected to be concluded in the near future.

Tehran has dismissed reports of its involvement in supplying weapons to Russia as “ugly propaganda” to hide the West’s military support for Israel. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Khanani has stated that the reports are an attempt to distract from the real issues in the region.