The European Union has signaled that it will ‘swiftly’ propose new sanctions on Iran following a deadly crackdown on nationwide protests. The announcement came from EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday, January 13th.
Condemning the ongoing restrictions on the population, Von der Leyen took to X, formerly Twitter, and posted
The rising number of casualties in Iran is horrifying. I unequivocally condemn the excessive use of force and continued restriction of freedom.
The move follows the European Parliament (EP)’s decision on January 12th to ban all Iranian diplomats and representatives from its premises. EP president Roberta Metsola said the ban was in response to the ongoing violence and repression in Iran, emphasizing that her institution would not
aid in legitimising this regime that has sustained itself through torture, repression and murder.
Von der Leyen stated that Brussels will propose further sanctions targeting those responsible for the suppression of protesters.
Amid international growing concerns about the severity of their response, Iranian authorities have revealed that some individuals arrested during the demonstrations will face capital crime charges under the term “moharebeh”—or “waging war against God”—a Sharia offense punishable by death. Human rights groups have warned that the Islamic republic may pursue expedited death penalty cases, without the protections of a fair trial.
