Norway to align with EU sanctions over mass killings in Iran

What happened

Norway will align itself with sanctions adopted by the European Union against specific individuals and entities tied to mass killings in Iran, according to a press release from Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said the EU’s decision to introduce sanctions against individuals who have contributed to the mass killings in Iran is important, and that Norway will also align with those measures.

Who is affected

The ministry said the sanctions are aimed at “specific individuals and entities” linked to the mass killings in Iran. The press release did not identify the targeted persons or entities.

Context cited by Norway

Eide said that, in recent weeks, the Iranian regime has killed several thousand civilians who have been demonstrating for freedom and the right to express themselves.

He said Norway has condemned, through public statements and direct contact with Iranian authorities, what it described as brutal abuses and the use of force against civilians in connection with protests in Iran.

Eide also cited executions, arrests, torture, and prolonged internet shutdowns as instruments of control that Norway considers unacceptable. Norway reiterated a call on Iranian authorities to respect human rights and ensure free and unhindered access to information.

Timing

The ministry said Norway “will” align with the EU sanctions. The press release did not specify an effective date or implementation timeline.