TEHRAN – Tehran has intensified its diplomatic protests against recent sanctions imposed by the United Kingdom and the European Union, summoning British and Hungarian diplomats to voice its strong disapproval.

On Monday, the UK and EU announced asset freezes targeting the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) and several individuals and entities. 

The sanctions were justified by allegations that Iran has been supplying drones, ballistic missiles, and related technologies to Russia for use in the ongoing war in Ukraine. Tehran has denied these accusations, labeling them as baseless and politically driven.  Europe has yet to provide evidence for the claims. 

The Iranian Foreign Ministry summoned the UK chargé d’affaires on Tuesday night in response to Britain’s actions, warning of retaliatory measures against their “irrational behavior.” 

Iranian officials argued that the sanctions violated international law and undermined principles of freedom of navigation and maritime trade. During the meeting, the UK diplomat was told that such interference is unacceptable and that Iran would not tolerate actions undermining its sovereignty.  

In a post on X, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also criticized the UK’s “hypocrisy” in arms trade practices, pointing to reports that British-made components for F-35 fighter jets are being supplied to Israel. 

He noted that these weapons are being used against civilians in violation of international humanitarian law. The Iranian minister accused the UK of prioritizing its diplomatic ties with the United States and NATO over ethical considerations, highlighting the Labour government’s refusal to implement an arms embargo on Israel.  

Simultaneously, Tehran lodged a formal protest with Hungary, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the European Union. The Hungarian ambassador to Iran, Giola Peto, was summoned to the Foreign Ministry to address the EU’s sanctions targeting IRISL and its managing director, Mohammad Reza Khiabani.  

During the meeting with the Director General of the Western Europe Department at the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Tehran reiterated its stance that the sanctions were unlawful and inconsistent with international norms.  

“Iran considers such actions to be baseless and inconsistent with international standards,” the Iranian diplomat stated, emphasizing that Tehran would not remain passive in the face of these provocations. “Those responsible for initiating and implementing these unilateral coercive measures must bear full accountability for their consequences.”  

Ambassador Peto assured Iranian officials that he would promptly convey their concerns to EU leaders in Brussels.  

Iran has consistently denied accusations that its shipping lines or airlines are involved in delivering military supplies to Russia. Tehran maintains that its cooperation with other nations, including in defense sectors, is both lawful and non-threatening to third parties.  

The sanctions, however, have further strained Tehran’s relations with both the EU and the UK. Iran’s Foreign Ministry has signaled its intent to respond decisively, warning that the measures will have consequences for those who initiated them.