UK Government Announces New Sanctions on Iran: Key Details from the 8 September 2026 Ministerial Statement

Today, we are introducing new legislation aimed at addressing Iranian nuclear activities and other aggressive actions associated with Iran. The opacity surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme has consistently represented a grave threat to global peace and security. The international community has repeatedly observed Iran’s failure to engage in good faith regarding these pressing concerns. For more than two decades, there has been a concerted effort to obtain clarity and assurance regarding the nature of Iran’s nuclear pursuits. Alarmingly, Iran has expanded its nuclear programme in ways that lack any plausible civilian justification, highlighted by its accumulation of over 400kg of uranium enriched to 60%. Notably, Iran stands as the only nation without nuclear weapons that enriches uranium to such a degree.

The UK has adhered to its United Nations obligations by implementing the snapback of UN sanctions against Iran as of 1 October 2025, following the enactment of the Iran (Sanctions) (Nuclear) (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations 2025. In a decisive move, the UK went beyond its obligations by designating 71 individuals and entities linked to Iran’s nuclear programme, encompassing sectors such as finance and energy.

Strengthening Legislative Measures

As outlined in a written statement to the House on 13 October 2025, and reiterated in an oral address on 13 January 2026, the UK government is poised to introduce new legislation that will impose additional sectoral measures on Iran. Today, I am presenting ‘The Iran (Sanctions) (Amendment) Regulations 2026’ in the House, which amends both The Iran (Sanctions) Regulations 2023 and The Iran (Sanctions) (Nuclear) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.

This new set of regulations reintroduces sectoral measures that were previously lifted as part of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, thereby reinforcing our commitment to curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Financial restrictions will further limit the Iranian government’s access to the UK financial system, hindering its ability to raise funds for its nuclear programme. Additionally, trade prohibitions against Iran will be extended to encompass more goods, technologies, and services, particularly those crucial to significant industries that contribute to Iran’s nuclear escalation, such as energy, software, metals, gold, and associated activities like shipping, insurance, and banking. The export of further goods and technologies essential to Iran’s conventional weaponry and nuclear capabilities will also be banned. Moreover, to augment our existing designations and the cessation of bilateral air service arrangements in 2024, Iranian aircraft will be barred from landing in the UK unless specific exemptions apply.

Targeting Maritime Activities

This legislation will also enhance our authority to sanction ships, thereby improving our capacity to target vessels that facilitate Iran’s nuclear programme and its destabilising actions.

In line with the UK’s responsible approach to sanctions, this legislation incorporates well-considered mitigations. General licences will be included to ensure the continued operation of the Shah Deniz gas field in Azerbaijan, which is vital for providing essential energy supplies to our European allies. This approach reflects a continuation of our long-standing policy and aligns with similar provisions from the EU and the US concerning activities related to Shah Deniz.

Through these measures, the government reaffirms its commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and to reinforcing sanctions that diminish Iranian hostile capabilities.

International Implications and Diplomatic Commitment

Iran’s nuclear programme remains a significant concern for the global community, particularly given its ongoing non-compliance with international safeguards. A negotiated resolution is the only viable long-term strategy to address the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear activities. We are steadfast in our commitment to achieving a durable and sustainable diplomatic solution that guarantees Iran does not develop nuclear weapons.