AIJAC commends reimposed Iran sanctions
Australia has reimposed targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on 19 Iranian individuals and 57 entities for their role in Iran’s nuclear and missile programs.
These sanctions were previously imposed under United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2231 and will now be listed under Australia’s autonomous sanctions framework. This is consistent with the approach taken by international partners.
In addition, a further three individuals and 11 entities were listed, due to their association with persons or entities sanctioned under UNSC Resolution 2231.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong says: “The Australian government is working to apply pressure on the Iranian regime for failing to uphold its international obligations, including its nuclear-related commitments.
Iran’s proliferation of ballistic and cruise missiles raises tensions in an already volatile region.
Iran must cease its escalatory actions in its nuclear program and recommit to full compliance with its nuclear-related commitments.
This includes reversing all steps away from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and allowing the International Atomic Energy Agency to completely verify Iran’s peaceful use of nuclear technology.
These sanctions demonstrate Australia’s commitment to the non‑proliferation of nuclear weapons, and determination to work with our international partners.”
The Australia/Israel and Jewish Affairs Council says the list includes the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Qods Force, Air Force and Missile Command, due to its association with previously designated figures and entities working on Iran’s nuclear and missile programs.
In a statement, AIJAC says: “In the wake of the hideous terrorist pogrom by Hamas on October 7, in which Iran is deeply complicit if not directly responsible, AIJAC reiterates its call for the listing of the IRGC as a terrorist organisation under Australia’s Criminal Code.
We also hope to see a generally stronger Australian stance on Iran, including more sanctions announced more often, targeting a host of other Iranian regime activities – including Iran’s material support for Russia’s war against Ukraine and terrorist groups throughout the world, as well as its hostage-taking, piracy and ongoing human rights abuses.
The latter includes especially the alleged assault on 16-year-old Armita Garavand – who is now in a military hospital under heavy guard and reportedly braindead – by Iran’s so-called “morality police” in early October for not wearing her hijab. This abusive act of regime violence warrants a statement by the Government and additional sanctions under the new Iran sanctions framework Australia established in July.”
AIJAC has long been calling for Australia to take a tougher stand on Iran both rhetorically and practically, and has repeatedly urged this Government to take much stronger action since December 2022 to bring Australia more in line with our allies and partners as well as with our own values and national security interests.
thank you Australia for taking a stand against the great devil on this earth.