European Union members have introduced fresh sanctions against Iran over its nuclear works, including restrictions on public loans and tougher cargo inspections, the EU presidency declared Friday. The measures, in accordance to an agreement by European ambassadors in July, are an application of the latest UN Security Council resolution on Iran.
The UN has called for "vigilance" in entering into new commitments for public-provided financial support for trade with Iran, including the granting of export credits. The EU has called on member states to exercise "restraint" in its dealings with Iran in those sectors.
According to AFP, the move comes as major Western powers are involved in a diplomatic clash with Tehran over its uranium enrichment program. The EU will exercise vigilance in dealing with "all banks domiciled in Iran, in particular Bank Saderat." EU governments will also exercise restraint "in entering into new commitments for public provided financial support for trade with Iran, notably the granting of export credits, guarantees or insurance," the French EU presidency stated.
The EU will also "carry out inspections at their airports and maritime ports on cargo going to and from Iran," with the statement mentioning in particular Iran Air Cargo and the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Line.
