Human rights violations, invasion of Ukraine: Australia imposing sanctions on Iran, Russia

This is said in a statement released by the press service of Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong, Ukrinform reports.

In particular, sanctions are being introduced against Iran's morality police, the Basij resistance force and six Iranian individuals, involved in the violent crackdown on protests following the death of Mahsa 'Jina' Amini and the continued oppression of the people of Iran.

Seven Russian individuals involved in the attempted assassination of former opposition leader Alexei Navalny will also have human rights sanctions imposed on them.

In addition to human rights sanctions, Australia is joining partners to announce further targeted financial sanctions on three Iranian individuals and one business involved in the supply of drones to Russia for use against Ukraine.

“Russia is using Iranian-made drones to target civilians and critical infrastructure, with the intention of denying Ukrainian people energy, heating and water as they face freezing winter temperatures… The Australian Government calls on countries to exert their influence on Russia to end its illegal, immoral war. Australia stands with the people of Ukraine and with the people of Iran. We employ every strategy at our disposal towards upholding human rights – ranging from dialogue and diplomacy to sanctions – consistent with our values and our interests,” the Australian ministry said.

As reported by Ukrinform, Australia has already provided Ukraine with $420 million in defense, economic and humanitarian aid.

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