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US, partners impose new Iran sanctions to mark Amini anniversary

The US in conjunction with Australia, Canada, and the UK issued a new round of sanctions against Iranian-state entities, officials and individuals in connection with Tehran's crackdown on protesters.

Women hold up signs depicting Mahsa Amini, who died while in the custody of Iranian authorities, Irbil, capital of Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region, September 24, 2022.
Women hold up signs depicting Mahsa Amini, who died while in the custody of Iranian authorities, Irbil, capital of Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region, September 24, 2022. — SAFIN HAMID/AFP via Getty Images

WASHINGTON — The Biden administration on Friday imposed new sanctions to mark the anniversary of Mahsa Amini’s death, which last year set off sweeping protests against Iran's clerical regime.

In connection with the government’s brutal clampdown on the nationwide protest movement, the administration announced sanctions against 25 Iranian individuals, Iranian state-backed media outlets Fars News, Tasnim News and Press TV, and one Iranian internet research firm. It also imposed visa restrictions on 13 Iranian officials and other individuals for their involvement. 

The sanctions were undertaken in coordination with Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. On Friday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged that the United States and its partners would “hold accountable those who suppress Iranians’ exercise of human rights.” 

“One year ago, Mahsa’s tragic and senseless death in the custody of Iran’s so-called 'Morality Police' sparked demonstrations across Iran that were met with unspeakable violence, mass arrests, systemic internet disruptions and censorship by the Iranian regime,” Blinken said in a statement. 

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