The United States and its allies have issued a warning to Iran regarding potential sanctions if it proceeds with plans to provide ballistic missiles to Russia for its conflict with Ukraine. While there is no confirmation that missiles have been transferred from Iran to Russia, Iranian officials' statements suggest that a deal may be imminent.
The Group of Seven countries is considering prohibiting Iran Air, the national carrier, from flying to Europe as one of the potential sanctions. The U.S. has indicated that it is prepared to respond swiftly with significant measures if Iran goes ahead with providing missiles to Russia.
Iran has stated that there are no legal restrictions preventing it from engaging in ballistic missile sales but has acknowledged a moral obligation to refrain from such transactions during the Russia-Ukraine conflict to avoid escalating the war.
The U.S. and Europe already have extensive sanctions in place against Iran, targeting individuals and restricting the country's access to various sectors. The Biden administration has expressed concerns about Russia's negotiations with Iran for missile acquisitions, with a visit by the Russian Defense Minister to Iran in September raising alarms.
Iran had previously completed a deal to purchase fighter jets from Russia and has been exploring additional military equipment acquisitions from the country. Efforts have been made to prevent supply, sale, or transfer of ballistic missile-related items involving Iran.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the need to address the situation, stating that multiple countries are engaged in conversations to deter Iran from proceeding with the missile deal. The Biden administration has highlighted intelligence findings indicating Russia's reliance on Iran and North Korea for arms in the conflict with Ukraine.
Russia has reportedly received drones and related equipment from Iran, with accusations of Tehran providing materials for a drone manufacturing plant in Russia. While Iran initially denied supplying drones to Russia, it later acknowledged providing a limited number before the conflict in Ukraine.
