TEHRAN, Iran: Iran has announced sanctions targeting several American and British individuals and entities for their alleged support of Israel during its conflict with the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
The move comes amid heightened tensions in the region and underscores Iran’s firm stance against perceived backers of its regional rival, Israel.
According to a statement from Iran’s foreign ministry, the sanctions target seven Americans, including General Bryan P. Fenton, commander of the US special operations command, and Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, a former commander of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet. Additionally, British officials and entities such as Secretary of State for Defence Grant Shapps, commander of the British army strategic command James Hockenhull, and the UK Royal Navy in the Red Sea are also included in the sanctions list.
Among the sanctioned entities are US firms Lockheed Martin and Chevron, and British counterparts Elbit Systems, Parker Meggitt, and Rafael UK. The sanctions entail measures such as the blocking of accounts and transactions in the Iranian financial and banking systems, asset freezes within Iran’s jurisdiction, and the prohibition of visa issuance and entry to Iranian territory.
While the specific impact of these measures on the individuals and entities targeted, as well as their assets or dealings with Iran, remains unclear, the move signals Iran’s determination to confront perceived supporters of Israel amid the ongoing conflict in the region.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, which erupted following Palestinian militants’ attack on Israel on October 7. Israel retaliation resulted in over 34,000 Palestinians dead mostly women and children.
Iran’s decision to impose sanctions on American and British individuals and entities underscores its commitment to countering perceived supporters of Israel and its unwavering support for Palestinian causes. However, the move is likely to further escalate tensions in an already volatile region, raising concerns about the potential for further conflict and instability.
