EU expands Iran sanctions framework over Strait of Hormuz actions

The European Union expanded its sanctions framework against Iran on Friday to target individuals and entities involved in actions threatening freedom of navigation in the Middle East, including the Strait of Hormuz."The amended sanctions framework will now also target individuals and entities involved in Iran’s actions and policies threatening the freedom of navigation in the Middle East," said the council in a press release.The move follows an April political agreement by EU foreign ministers and allows travel bans and asset freezes against those accused of impeding lawful maritime transit. The Council said Iran’s actions against vessels crossing the strait violate international law and rights of transit passage.