Iran faces extensive UN and US sanctions regimes

Iran faces extensive, overlapping sanctions from the United Nations, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. These measures target the nation's oil exports, banking system, nuclear and missile programs, and various senior officials.

In September 2025, United Nations sanctions were officially reimposed after France, Germany, and the United Kingdom triggered the “snapback” mechanism under UN Security Council Resolution 2231. This action reinstated six previous resolutions, including an arms embargo, restrictions on nuclear and uranium enrichment technology, and limitations on ballistic missile activities. It also includes asset freezes and trade controls related to prohibited programs.

Additionally, the United States has recently introduced new economic and trade sanctions enforced by the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to increase economic pressure on the country.