London: On Thursday, UK authorities unveiled their plans for a new set of sanctions against Iran, including increased authority to target Tehran's top decision-makers.
New criteria for sanctioning people and organisations, including those involved in the supply or use of Iranian weapons and military technologies, are included in the proposals. Activities that threaten democracy, the rule of law, good governance, and regional and global peace, stability, and security are now included in the criteria.
Additionally, they would permit the imposition of sanctions in response to actions hostile to the UK, such as threats against people, property, or security.
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The action comes in response to an increase in attempts by the Tehran regime to assassinate or abduct its rivals outside of Iran. Since the start of 2022, the UK has reportedly received more than 15 threats against its citizens or other people, according to British authorities.
In an effort to expand their networks, Iranian intelligence services are said to have forged close ties with organised crime groups throughout Europe.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly stated that the Iranian government "is repressing its own people, exporting bloodshed in the Middle East and Ukraine, and threatening to kill and kidnap on UK soil."
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"Today the UK sent the regime a strong message: We will not put up with this evil behaviour, and we will hold you accountable. Our new sanctions policy will make sure that those who want to harm us have nowhere to hide.
In accordance with already in place government mechanisms that allow for the designation of those accountable for serious human rights violations in Iran, the UK also announced the introduction of new sanctions. They target 13 people and entities, including government agencies in charge of cybersecurity and Iranian prison administration. Sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans, and people or organisations in the UK are not allowed to conduct business with those who have been sanctioned.
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This month, the UK is in charge of rotating the UN Security Council presidency, and on Thursday, it was scheduled to lead international opposition to the Iranian regime's proliferation of weapons and nuclear development.
According to British authorities, Tehran continues to supply weapons to Russia for use in Ukraine and the Houthis in Yemen, in violation of international law. This information has reportedly been presented to council members in great detail.