Ottawa restores sanctions on Iran it lifted a decade ago
OTTAWA — Canada will impose sanctions on 11 Iranian entities accused of contributing to Tehran’s pursuit of nuclear and ballistic missiles or of financing violence abroad.
On November 10, 2026, Canada announced the reinstatement of sanctions on 11 Iranian entities, accusing them of aiding Iran's nuclear and missile programs, and financing violence abroad. The sanctioned organizations comprise banks, insurers, and a tanker company. Canada severed ties with Iran in 2012 due to concerns over its nuclear program, human rights violations, and backing of the Syrian civil war.
The country closed its embassy in Iran, expelled Iranian diplomats, and labeled Iran as a state sponsor of terrorism when it ended relations. However, Canada eased economic sanctions on Iran in 2016, claiming Iran had shown progress in maintaining a peaceful nuclear program. Under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, Iran is prohibited from developing or acquiring nuclear weapons.
The sanctions announced by Global Affairs Canada align with the efforts of G7 nations to encourage Iran to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency. This report by The Canadian Press was originally published on November 10, 2026, by Alyssa Wheeler.
Written by urgent.news from CityNews's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.