The Iran (Sanctions) (Nuclear) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019
ensure sanctions relating to Iran are implemented
effectively after the UK leaves the EU.
Context
This sanctions regime is aimed at
-
encouraging Iran to comply with relevant UN obligations
-
encouraging Iran to abandon nuclear weapons programmes
-
restricting the ability of Iran to develop nuclear
weapons and nuclear weapons delivery systems
This sanctions regime also gives effect to the UK’s
obligations under United Nations Security Council
resolution (UNSCR) 2231 (2015).
The regulations impose asset freezes on those who are, or
have been, involved in the facilitation of restricted
weapons-related activity in Iran. It also imposes asset
freezes and other financial measures on any person named by
the Security Council for the purposes of UNSCR 2231 (2015).
The UK also implements a sanctions regime on
Iran related to human rights.
Some individuals and entities listed under this regime are
also listed under the following regimes:
If you aren’t sure where someone may be listed, you can
consult OFSI’s consolidated list of
asset freeze targets.
Legislative developments
Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA)
On 16 January 2016 (Implementation Day), Iran completed its
nuclear-related commitments under the Joint Comprehensive
Plan of Action (JCPoA) and received extensive sanctions
relief. As part of this sanctions relief, restrictions on
financial transfers to and from Iran were lifted.
Therefore, you no longer need to obtain prior authorisation
for, or notify HM Treasury of, transfers of funds sent to
or received from Iran.
However, some individuals and entities remain subject to
restrictive measures under the Iran (Nuclear) (EU Exit)
Regulations, and it is your responsibility to ensure you
are compliant.
Some persons, entities and bodies subject to
counter-proliferation measures use ‘shell’ or ‘front’
companies to disguise the ultimate destination of goods,
funds and services. You must ensure that no funds or
economic resources are made available, directly or
indirectly, to or for the benefit of listed targets.
UN Resolutions
On 20 July 2015, the UN Security Council unanimously
adopted Resolution 2231
(2015) which terminated previous resolutions on Iranian
nuclear proliferation.
UK regulations
EU Regulations (applicable prior to 11:00pm, 31 December
2020)
Council Regulation
(EU) No 267/2012
Find out more about
UK sanctions on Iran relating to nuclear weapons
Current list of designated persons: Iran (nuclear
proliferation)
