EU extends sanctions framework to target Iran over Strait of Hormuz navigation threats

The Council of the European Union has extended the bloc's restrictive measures framework so it can now be used against individuals and entities involved in Iran's actions and policies that threaten freedom of navigation in the Middle East. The amended framework is aimed at conduct affecting transit passage and innocent passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

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The Council said the decision was taken today and implements the political agreement reached by EU foreign affairs ministers on 21 April 2026. The new scope gives the EU authority to introduce further restrictive measures in response to Iran's actions undermining the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The sanctions package includes travel restrictions, an asset freeze, and a ban on EU citizens and companies making funds, financial assets or economic resources available to listed individuals and entities. Those measures may be applied to persons and entities designated under the expanded legal framework.

The Council said Iran's actions against vessels transiting through the Strait of Hormuz are contrary to international law and infringe established rights of transit and innocent passage through international straits. The language in the decision explicitly links the amended framework to maritime conduct in that waterway.

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The EU said the original dedicated sanctions framework was established on 20 July 2023 in view of Iran's military support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. It was broadened on 14 May 2024 in view of Iran's military support for armed groups in the Middle East and Red Sea region, and the drone and missile attacks Iran carried out against Israel in April 2024.

The Council also cited the European Council's conclusions of 19 March 2026 and an EU statement of 9 April 2026 urging full respect for freedom of navigation and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

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