Australia takes new action against Iran
Three new Iranian individuals and 11 entities have been slapped with targeted financial sanctions and travel bans over their role in the Middle Eastern country’s nuclear and missile programs.
Penalties have also been reimposed on the 19 Iranian individuals and entities, in actions mirroring international partners like the European Union, Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced.
The sanctions were originally imposed under the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2231 to ensure Iran would dismantle its nuclear arms programs via the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Under the terms, Iran would have to allow the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to verify its progress.
While Iran doesn’t have any known nuclear weapons, the IAEA states the republic has 18 nuclear facilities and nine locations outside facilities under IAEA safeguards.
Senator Wong called on the Iran to “cease its escalatory actions in its nuclear program and recommit to full compliance with its nuclear-related commitments”.
“Iran’s proliferation of ballistic and cruise missiles raises tensions in an already volatile region,” the statement said.
“This includes reversing all steps away from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and allowing the International Atomic Energy Agency to completely verify Iran’s peaceful use of nuclear technology.
“These sanctions demonstrate Australia’s commitment to the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and determination to work with our international partners.”
The sanctions come as tensions continue to escalate between Israel and Gaza, Iran has rattled the international community with threats to enter the conflict through its state-backed militant group Hezbollah.
“All possible options and scenarios are there for Hezbollah,” Iran’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian told state TV on Monday.
“Naturally, resistance leaders will not allow the Zionist regime to take any action in Gaza, and when it feels reassured about Gaza, move on to other resistance areas in the region.”
“Therefore, any pre-emptive measure is imaginable in the coming hours.”
