On 18 November 2024, the Council of the European Union took significant action by expanding its existing framework of restrictive measures to counter Iran’s military support for Russia and various armed groups operating in the Middle East and Red Sea region. This decision reflects the EU’s commitment to respond decisively to what it perceives as escalating threats to European security and global stability, stemming from Iran’s provision of military equipment to Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine.
The council’s decision introduces a robust set of prohibitions aimed at halting the export, transfer, supply and sale of components from EU member states to Iran that are utilised in the development and production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and missile systems. These measures seek to disrupt the supply chain supporting Iran’s production capabilities and curb its ability to continue arming Russia and regional armed entities.
In addition, the EU has imposed a transaction ban that specifically targets ports and locks that are owned, controlled or operated by designated individuals and entities, or those used for the transport of Iranian UAVs, missiles or related technologies. The new rules restrict access to these facilities, including notable ports like Amirabad and Anzali. While these measures are stringent, they do allow for certain exceptions – vessels in need of urgent assistance for reasons related to maritime safety, humanitarian relief or events posing severe risks to health and the environment will not be hindered from accessing these ports.
The council’s decision also included new sanctions on one individual and four entities involved in facilitating the transfer of missile and drone technology from Iran to Russia. This list notably includes the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL), Iran’s national maritime carrier, and its director, Mohammad Reza Khiabani. The IRISL has long been linked to transporting drones on behalf of the EU-designated Islamic
Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy, contributing to military logistics that bolster Russia’s capacity in its conflict with Ukraine. Furthermore, the EU has sanctioned three Russian shipping companies – MG Flot, VTS Broker and Arapax – for their roles in moving Iranian-made weapons and UAV components across the Caspian Sea to support Russian military operations.
These actions are rooted in the EU’s broader strategy to counter what it perceives as an increase in military collaboration between Iran and Russia. The latest measures build on this approach, includes reinforcing the EU’s commitment to restricting Russia’s access to essential military technologies and targeting third-party enablers involved in such transfers. By extending the sanctions framework until 27 July 2025, the EU reaffirms its vigilance and its resolve to adapt and strengthen its policies as needed. This move highlights the EU’s dedication to protecting European and global security, ensuring a coordinated and unified response with its international partners to meet evolving threats.
