On December 12th, the European Union imposed sanctions on 20 individuals and one entity who participated in the repression of anti-government protests in Iran. Additionally, the EU placed sanctions on four individuals and four entities involved in Iran’s drone deliveries to Russia. The sanctions were approved by foreign ministers from EU member states during a meeting held in Brussels.
These sanctions will exacerbate Iran’s already strained Western relations and hinder its economic recovery, even after the protests subside, as unwinding them will prove challenging. However, external pressure is unlikely to convince Iran’s government to change its approach towards the crackdown on protesters. This is because individual sanctions have a less significant impact on the economy than sector-wide sanctions. As Russia requires more weapons for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Iran is one of the few remaining viable suppliers. If Iran continues to provide Russia with weapons, Europe is expected to impose further sanctions.
In a public hanging on December 12th, Iran executed a protester involved in the Mahsa Amini protests. This marks the second protester execution since Amini’s death on September 16th, while in police custody. Following this execution, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the act, stating that such executions are a blatant attempt to intimidate people. Iranian security forces have been heavily suppressing anti-government protests in the country.
PIPM recommends extreme caution when considering travel to the area. For more details or secure travel assistance, please contact our Secure Travel Desk at STOps@PIPM.ca or +1-416-937-1295 (Direct.)