Australia sanctions Iran over “Brutal Oppression” of Iranians as US, UK Push for Reopening of Hormuz

12/05/2026

Australia sanctions Iran over “Brutal Oppression” of Iranians as US, UK Push for Reopening of Hormuz

CANBERRA, May 12: Australia imposed targeted sanctions on seven Iranian individuals and four entities over what it described as Tehran’s “brutal oppression” of its people and efforts to destabilize the region.

In a statement, the Australian government said the measures include financial sanctions and travel bans targeting officials and organizations accused of violence against women and children, mass arrests, torture, forced confessions, internet restrictions and the detention of foreign nationals.

Australia also accused Iran of using a “shadow banking system” to finance regional proxy groups such as Hamas, support its ballistic missile program and fund other destabilizing activities.

Meanwhile, the US Department of State said talks between Marco Rubio and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz ahead of a major international defense meeting on maritime security.

Around 40 defense ministers are expected to participate in the talks later Tuesday to discuss future arrangements for protecting shipping through the strategic waterway following the end of the war. UK Defence Secretary John Healey and French counterpart Catherine Vautrin are expected to co-chair the session, where coalition partners may outline military contributions for a future maritime protection mission.