New sanctions and export controls against Iran will affect 44 entities involved in the nuclear program, missile developments, and military initiatives.
Sanctions and Their Goals
The U.S. State Department mentioned that the sanctions list includes five individuals and one organization related to Iran’s Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research, which is the successor to Iran’s nuclear weapons program halted in 2004. These measures highlighted Iran’s persistent attempts to acquire components and technologies for its activities, which, according to the U.S., threaten regional security.
Europe’s Countermeasures
Previously, the European Union imposed restrictive measures against Iran due to activities in the field of nuclear weapons proliferation. However, after the nuclear agreement with Tehran in 2015, these measures were suspended. A new statement was published on the European Council’s website.
According to BBC information, Iran is also subject to extensive economic and military sanctions imposed by the UN. A new wave of measures was initiated when three European countries — the United Kingdom, France, and Germany — activated the return mechanism, accusing Iran of nuclear escalation and insufficient cooperation.
Opinion of Iranian Authorities
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described these sanctions as “unfair and illegal.” He emphasized that such measures do not contribute to improving the situation.
Historical Context
The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action of 2015 limited Iran’s nuclear facilities, enriched uranium stocks, and the volume of research that could be conducted. The goal of the agreement was to allow Iran to develop its nuclear program without developing nuclear weapons.
The situation escalated after the U.S. withdrew from the agreement in 2018 under President Donald Trump, who repeatedly criticized the agreement, considering it incorrect. Promises that more favorable conditions would be achieved depended on further developments.
In July 2025, Israeli and American forces struck several nuclear facilities and military bases in Iran, leading to the suspension of inspections at nuclear sites.
