By Gabriel Ani
LONDON (ChatnewsTV) — The United Kingdom announced a new round of sanctions against Iran on Monday, citing its role in supplying ballistic missiles to Russia for use in Ukraine. The sanctions were revealed as Foreign Secretary David Lammy chaired a United Nations Security Council session in New York, reinforcing the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing conflict.
“Iran’s attempts to undermine global security are dangerous and unacceptable,” Lammy said in a statement, emphasizing the UK’s firm stance alongside international partners.
“We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.”
The latest measures target Iran’s national airline, Iran Air, which is now subject to an asset freeze. This move intensifies restrictions on its commercial air services to and from the UK. Additionally, sanctions were imposed on the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) and the Russian cargo ship PORT OLYA-3 for their roles in facilitating the transfer of military equipment from Iran to Russia.
“These sanctions send a clear message: any support for Russia’s illegal war will not be tolerated,” said UK Transport Secretary Louise Haigh.
“We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to pressure Iran to halt its dangerous activities.”
The UK’s decision to sanction Iran Air and other entities follows earlier commitments made with its European partners—France and Germany—as part of the E3 coalition, aimed at responding to Iran’s transfer of military technology. In September, the UK had already cancelled bilateral air services agreements with Iran and strengthened sanctions related to items crucial for missile and drone production.
Monday’s announcement comes as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak prepares to mark 1,000 days since the onset of Russia’s invasion at the G20 summit, and as tensions remain high over Iran’s support for Russia’s military campaign. To date, the UK has sanctioned more than 450 Iranian individuals and entities and over 2,100 Russian individuals and organizations, including those linked to the supply of military hardware.
“Iran must stop supporting Putin’s unprovoked, premeditated, and barbaric attack against a sovereign democratic state,” Lammy said, reiterating the UK’s call for Iran to cease its military assistance to Russia.
