‘Destabilising Behaviour’: Australia Sanctions Iran Officials Amid Middle East Conflict

Australia Imposes Sanctions on Iran Officials in Midst of Middle East Conflict, Citing Destabilizing Actions.

May 13, 2024 TruthUSA

Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that the federal government has approved sanctions against 90 individuals and 100 entities linked to Iran.

The Australian government imposed sanctions on high-ranking Iran officials due to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, citing Iran’s destabilizing behavior.

The sanctioned individuals include Iran Defence Minister Mohammad Reza Ashtiani and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Qods Force commander, Brigadier General Esmail Qaani.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed concerns about the activities of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, describing them as a malignant actor threatening international security and their own people. She also criticized the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy for seizing an Israeli-linked civilian vessel in international waters.

Australia continues to call for the immediate release of the ship and its crew, as stated by Ms. Wong.

The Australian government plans to apply pressure to Iran strategically to cease its disruptive activities across the region.

Sanctions imposed by the United States and allies targeting Iran’s missile and drone programs, as well as entities supporting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Iran’s Defense Ministry, were also highlighted.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan reiterated the commitment to strengthening air and missile defense systems across the Middle East to counter Iran’s capabilities.

On April 19, Iran launched a missile and drone attack against Israel, prompting retaliatory strikes and calls for restraint from the Australian government.

Countries Not Onboard With Iran Sanctions

The U.S. Department of Treasury sanctioned several entities for facilitating the sale of Iranian UAVs to Russia for use in the conflict against Ukraine.

In response, Malaysia announced it would only recognize sanctions imposed by the United Nations, not by individual countries like the United States.

Iranian oil is reportedly being offloaded to China via third parties, in defiance of U.S. sanctions.

India is collaborating with Iran on the development and operation of the Chabahar port for easier transportation of goods to Iran, Afghanistan, and other Central Asian countries.

Labor Government Backs Palestinian UN Membership

Australia’s decision to support a U.N. resolution backing Palestinian membership has raised concerns, as it differs from the stance of allies such as the United States and Israel.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong defended Australia’s decision, emphasizing the resolution’s focus on seeking two states for security for both peoples, despite Hamas’ terrorist actions.

Source link