Canada sanctions five Iranian officials over Strait of Hormuz blockade

Canada has imposed sanctions on five Iranian officials over what Ottawa described as efforts to undermine “international peace, security and stability” through the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand announced the measures, which target a senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps official, the head of Iran’s foreign policy and national security committee, a naval commander and the chair of the Iranian Energy Exporters Union, Caliber.Az reports via Canadian media. 

According to the Canadian government’s sanctions notice, about 1,500 vessels were stranded in the Persian Gulf as of August 6 as a result of the disruption to shipping through the strategic waterway.

Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz after the United States and Israel launched joint strikes against the country on February 28, causing major disruptions to global energy markets.

The Canadian sanctions prohibit individuals and businesses in Canada from dealing with those listed and freeze any assets they hold in Canada.

Canada has now sanctioned 232 individuals and 260 entities linked to Iran’s intelligence, security and economic networks.

By Sabina Mammadli