The European Union is moving towards a tougher stance on Iran following recent developments and the continued repression of anti-government protests in the country. The European Commission’s spokesperson for foreign policy, Anouar El Anouni, said the Commission is seriously considering imposing new sanctions in response to violence against demonstrators, while maintaining what he described as a policy of “critical engagement”.
“We are genuinely considering the imposition of further sanctions against Iran in response to recent developments and the crackdown on protests,” El Anouni said. “Our approach has always been one of critical engagement – critical where necessary, but also ready to engage where our shared interests allow.”
Focus on Revolutionary Guards
Particular reference was made to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, who are already subject to EU sanctions. El Anouni said they constitute a central pillar of repression and remain under close scrutiny by European authorities.
“The Revolutionary Guards, who are already under EU sanctions, are one of the main focal points of our policy,” he said, noting that the EU’s existing legal framework targets individuals and entities involved in serious human rights violations.
Solidarity with protesters
Referring to the ongoing protests, the Commission spokesperson expressed the EU’s full solidarity with the Iranian people and announced that additional restrictive measures are being prepared.
“We stand in full solidarity with the Iranian people and unequivocally condemn the use of violence against demonstrators,” he said, adding that reports of casualties had been shocking. He said the EU was ready to propose new, stricter sanctions targeting additional individuals responsible for the repression.
Decisions expected
According to El Anouni, the EU’s next steps are expected to be clarified at forthcoming meetings of EU bodies. The Foreign Affairs Council is scheduled for 29 January, while an extraordinary meeting on political and security matters focusing exclusively on Iran is to be held as early as tomorrow.
At the same time, contacts with the Iranian authorities are continuing through the EU’s local presidency in Tehran, currently held by Cyprus for the ongoing six-month term.
Von der Leyen condemns repression
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed these messages in a statement issued on Sunday, saying that “the streets of Tehran and cities around the world are resonating with the footsteps of Iranian women and men demanding freedom”.
Freedom of expression, assembly and movement, and above all the right to live freely, are what protesters are calling for, she said, stressing that Europe stands fully with them.
“We unequivocally condemn the violent repression of these entirely legitimate demonstrations,” von der Leyen added, warning that those responsible would be remembered on the wrong side of history. She called for the immediate release of all imprisoned protesters, the restoration of full internet access and respect for fundamental rights.