EU Imposes New Sanctions on Iranian Airlines Over Alleged Missile Transfers to Russia

The European Union (EU) has announced new sanctions against three Iranian airlines—Iran Air, Mahan Air, and Saha Airlines—following allegations that Iran has been involved in the Ukraine conflict by supplying ballistic missiles to Russia. These claims, which Tehran and Moscow have consistently denied as baseless, have prompted the EU to issue restrictive measures targeting specific individuals and entities linked to Iran’s defense industry.

In a statement released on Monday, the EU accused the three Iranian airlines of transporting Iranian-made missiles and drones to Russia, allegedly contributing to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The EU clarified that these sanctions aim to counteract specific policies of Iran, without disrupting regular air traffic or communication between the EU and Iran.

As part of the sanctions, the EU has imposed an asset freeze and travel ban on seven Iranian individuals and seven entities. Among those sanctioned are Behnam Shahriari, Ali Shadmani, and several others, along with companies such as Basamad Electronic Pouya Company and the Shahid Haj Ali Movahed Research Center. The EU prohibits the provision of funds or economic resources to those listed, further intensifying economic pressure on Iran.

Iranian officials have firmly rejected these allegations, emphasizing that the country has no involvement in the Ukraine conflict. Iran continues to advocate for a peaceful political solution to end the war, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterating that Tehran has not sent any ballistic missiles to Russia.