Iran Sanctions UK Defense Minister for Alleged Support to Israel

Iran has imposed sanctions against UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps and several other military officials, along with three UK companies, for their purported backing of Israel's actions against Palestine, announced the Iranian Foreign Ministry on Thursday.

Among those added to the sanctions list are Shapps, Commander of the British Army Strategic Command James Hockenhull, and Deputy Chief of the General Staff Sharon Nesmith, alongside other high-ranking military figures.

Additionally, the Royal Air Force Akrotiri military airbase in Cyprus, as well as the companies Rafael UK, Parker Meggitt, and Elbit Systems, have been included in the updated list.

In a statement shared on its Telegram channel, the Iranian Foreign Ministry stated, "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran... includes the following individuals and entities of the UK regime in its sanction list for deliberate support and facilitation of the Israel Zionist regime’s actions."

The statement cited alleged offenses including committing terrorist acts, violating human rights, engaging in warmongering, using prohibited weapons against civilians, contributing to the displacement of Palestinians, expanding illegal settlements in occupied territories, and perpetuating occupation.

Iran's move comes amid escalating tensions between Tehran and Western nations, particularly over issues related to the Middle East and Iran's nuclear program.