EU Reimposes Sanctions on Iran — Official 29 September 2025 Update

EU Reimposes Sanctions on Iran — 29 September 2025

The European Union confirmed on 29 September 2025 that it has reinstated strict economic and diplomatic sanctions on Iran after the United Nations restored previously suspended measures under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

EU officials stated that Iran’s repeated nuclear violations triggered the “snapback” mechanism, allowing sanctions to return automatically.

The renewed measures freeze the assets of Iran’s Central Bank and major financial institutions, impose travel bans on senior Iranian officials, ban the purchase and transport of Iranian crude oil, and prohibit the sale of gold, marine equipment, and other strategic goods.

Britain, France, and Germany formally notified the UN of Iran’s serious breaches, leading the Security Council to reactivate its own sanctions a day earlier. This cleared the way for the EU to follow suit.

Analysts warn the move will further tighten pressure on Iran’s economy by reducing vital oil exports, straining foreign reserves, and weakening the national currency.

Although the EU stressed that diplomatic channels remain open, it emphasized that continued nuclear non-compliance will not be tolerated.

Tehran denounced the decision as illegal and unilateral, calling it a violation of sovereignty and warning that if sanctions persist, it may escalate nuclear activities or even withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Regional observers expect heightened tensions across the Middle East, with the risk of cyberattacks, covert retaliation, and volatility in global energy markets. Oil prices could climb if Iranian exports decline sharply.

Despite keeping the door to dialogue ajar, the EU’s action signals that Western powers are prepared to enforce strict penalties.