EU Imposes Sanctions Against Iranian Shipping Firms

The European Union has expanded its sanctions against Iran, citing the country’s support for Russia in its ongoing war with Ukraine.

The European Commission announced the measures on Monday, adding several Iranian and Russian shipping entities to its sanctions list.

The sanctions include the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) and its director, Mohammad Reza Modarres Khiabani.

The EU accuses IRISL of facilitating the transportation of drones, missiles, and related technologies manufactured in Iran, which are allegedly being used in the conflict.

The sanctions aim to disrupt Iran’s logistical support to Russia by targeting ships, ports, and maritime infrastructure associated with entities under EU sanctions.

The measures prohibit transactions with ports and waterways controlled by sanctioned individuals or organizations, further isolating Iran’s maritime operations.

In addition to IRISL, the EU has imposed sanctions on three Russian shipping companies: MG Flot, VTS Broker, and Arapaks.

These companies are accused of transporting Iranian-made military supplies, including drone components, across the Caspian Sea to equip Russian forces in Ukraine.