The European Union has moved to expand its sanctions regime against Iran, paving the way for punitive measures over Tehran’s alleged role in threatening freedom of navigation in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. In a statement issued on Friday, the European Council announced that it had amended its existing sanctions framework — initially created in response to Iran’s support for Russia’s war in Ukraine — to also target actions linked to maritime disruptions in the Gulf region.

Iran has announced it is expanding its control over the Strait of Hormuz into foreign territory, angering neighbouring countries.

The European Union has moved to expand its sanctions regime against Iran, paving the way for punitive measures over Tehran’s alleged role in threatening freedom of navigation in…