Canada has announced fresh sanctions against four senior Iranian officials for their alleged involvement in human rights abuses.
The sanctions, imposed under the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations, were announced on Monday by Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand. The move targets Mohsen Karimi, Ahmad Kadem Seyedoshohada, Mustafa Mohebbi, and Hassan Akharian, citing their alleged roles in “gross and systematic human rights violations” and in “facilitating and directing repressive policies” in Iran.
According to Global Affairs Canada, Iran continues to suppress protests and dissent, violating international human rights obligations. The statement highlighted that Iran’s security forces have reportedly used “excessive and lethal force” to restrict Iranians’ rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.
This latest round marks Canada’s 18th set of sanctions on Iranian officials and entities since October 2022, reflecting ongoing concerns about human rights violations in the country.
Canada’s government emphasized that these sanctions aim to hold individuals accountable while supporting the rights and freedoms of Iranian citizens facing repression.
Background: Canada has consistently used its economic and diplomatic measures to pressure Iran to comply with international human rights norms, including targeting individuals and entities responsible for systemic abuses.