Iran: EU sanctions perpetrators of serious human rights violations

The Council added eleven individuals and four entities to the list of those subject to restrictive measures in the context of the existing Iran human rights sanctions regime.

This is in view of their role in the death of Mahsa Amini and the violent response to the recent demonstrations in Iran.

Today’s designations include those responsible for the death of Mahsa Amini: Iran’s Morality Police and two of its key figures Mohammad Rostami and Hajahmad Mirzaei. In addition, the EU designates the Iranian Law Enforcement Forces (LEF), as well as a number of its local chiefs for their role in the brutal repression of the protests. Moreover, the EU lists Issa Zarepour, the Iranian Minister of information and Communications Technology, for his responsibility in the internet shutdown.

The measures imposed today consist of a travel ban and an asset freeze. In addition, EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to the listed individuals and entities. The Iran human rights sanctions regime also includes a ban on exports to Iran of equipment which might be used for internal repression and of equipment for monitoring telecommunications.

The list now comprises a total of 97 individuals and 8 entities.

The European Union and its member states condemn the widespread and disproportionate use of force against peaceful protestors. This is unjustifiable and unacceptable. People in Iran, as anywhere else, have the right to peacefully protest and this right must be ensured in all circumstances.

The EU expects Iran to immediately stop the violent crackdown against peaceful protesters, to free those detained, and to ensure the free flow of information, including internet access. Furthermore, the EU expects Iran to clarify the number of deaths and arrested, and provide due process to all detainees. The killing of Mahsa Amini must be duly investigated and any proved responsible for her death must be held accountable.