Iran slams EU sanctions imposed under false pretext of drone supply
2 Min Read
The EU has updated its framework of sanctions on Iran without providing evidence of the country's alleged involvement in Ukraine.
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Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Nasser Kanaani speaks during a press conference in Tehran, Iran, December 5, 2022. (AFP)
The spokesperson of Iran's Foreign Ministry, Nasser Kanaani, has again denied claims of Iran exporting attack drones to Russia, slamming the accusations as "unfounded".
Kanaani said attempts to link bilateral cooperation between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Russia to link the former to the war in Ukraine comes in line with political goals.
The official's remarks come in reaction to new European Union sanctions on Iran, which come under the pretext of drone sales to Russia.
He emphasized Iran's clear opposition to the war and its support for a diplomatic peace deal between the two countries. Kanaani added that the West continues to look for false accusations to impose further sanctions on the Iranian people.
He also said the Islamic Republic of Iran will reserve the right to take reciprocal and proportionate action against the EU and its members.
On July 21, the EU imposed new sanctions on Iran on baseless claims, prohibiting the export of components used for drone production. It is worth noting that such a step will also affect the prices and availability of components that go into civilian products, which has been a hallmark of unilateral and multilateral sanctions on nations.
Sanctions will also target individuals which the EU claims are responsible for drone production in the country.
The West has lamented Tehran with accusations regarding weapon sales to Russia, and Iran has responded on multiple occasions by denying the claims. Furthermore, the country has requested documents be provided to prove its involvement, however, neither Ukraine nor its Western allies have been able to do so.
Earlier in June Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Vassily Nebenzia commented on the situation saying, "This is not the first time that we are hearing allegations about us using Iranian drones in Ukraine. We categorically rejected these baseless allegations."
"We expect the Secretariat to strictly abide by its mandate and not to yield to pressure exerted by some states," he added.
