- January 20, 2026
- 10:11 pm
- Middle East
The European Union is preparing to expand sanctions pressure on Iran by proposing a ban on the export of new technologies that can be used in the production of drones and missiles.
This was stated by the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, emphasizing that the measures are directly related to security and human rights issues.
According to her, Europe expresses full support for Iranians who, risking their own lives, take to the streets demanding freedom β not only for themselves but also for future generations.
The restrictions proposed by Brussels affect critically important military technologies that could enhance the potential of Iranian military programs.
The new package is being discussed against the backdrop of the ongoing internal crisis in Iran and growing concerns about regional stability.
EU’s Response to Repression Inside Iran
The head of the EU’s foreign policy service, Kaja Kallas, reported that additional sanctions are being prepared against individuals involved in the “persistent and brutal suppression” of protests.
In her assessment, these are not symbolic steps.
The new measures should limit Iran’s ability to support aggressive actions by Russia against Ukraine, including through the supply of technologies and components.
Work on the sanctions is being conducted against the backdrop of reports of increasing violence by Iranian security forces.
How Protests in Iran Are Developing
The protest movement, which began at the end of 2022 amid economic difficulties, has transitioned into a long-term phase of pressure on the authorities.
Despite international calls for de-escalation, mass arrests continue.
According to Iranian human rights organizations, the number of protesters killed has reached 3,428 people.
At the same time, independent sources and information leaks indicate that the real losses may be significantly higher than the officially recognized figures.
Sanctions Previously Imposed
The European Union has already imposed restrictions against hundreds of Iranian officials for repression within the country and for aiding Russian military aggression.
A separate point was the ban on the export of components that could be used in the creation of drones and missiles.
In April 2024, the sanctions regime was expanded following a direct attack by Iran on Israel.
Most of the launched missiles were intercepted, but the incident became a turning point for the EU’s policy in the region.
What’s Next
The situation around Iran remains tense.
The course towards further tightening of sanctions in Brussels is considered inevitable β both due to Tehran’s internal policy and its role in international conflicts.
Mass protests, the harsh reaction of the authorities, and increasing external pressure form a complex geopolitical picture closely monitored by world powers.
It is in this context that NAnews β News of Israel | Nikk.Agency continues to analyze EU decisions, their impact on the Middle East, and the consequences for regional security.
