Canada imposes sanctions on five Iranian officials over Strait of Hormuz navigation threats

Canada has imposed sanctions on five Iranian officials due to activities threatening international navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The sanctions target senior officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran, including members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, for their military, legal, and media actions that undermine peace, security, and stability.

These actions include obstructing navigation rights in and around the Strait of Hormuz, which Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand described as violations of international law. The Canadian government stated that these sanctions, issued under the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations, align with efforts by allies and partners to counter Iran's destabilizing activities and Tehran's influence in the Middle East and beyond.

Anand emphasized that Canada will continue to work with allies to support diplomatic efforts for protecting freedom of navigation in accordance with international law. The move comes amid ongoing tensions and a decline in maritime traffic due to escalating tensions between Iran and the United States affecting oil and shipping movements through the strategic waterway.