Iran Accuses Europe of Double Standards and ‘Hypocrisy’ on Sanctions

27/04/2026

TEHRAN, Apr 27: Esmaeil Baqaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, sharply criticized remarks by Ursula von der Leyen over sanctions on Iran, calling the measures “inhumane” and accusing European leaders of “double standards and hypocrisy.”

The reaction came after von der Leyen said at a press conference in Berlin that it would be “too early” to lift sanctions on Iran, citing human rights concerns and stressing that a “fundamental change” would be required before any easing.

Responding on social media, Baqaei said the sanctions “were designed to trample the basic rights of ordinary Iranians” and argued that von der Leyen’s comments “only further demonstrate Europe’s ruling class’ double-standard and hypocrisy, and hasten Europe’s embarrassing descent into irrelevance.”

The criticism follows a decision by the Council of the European Union last month to impose additional sanctions over alleged human rights violations, particularly linked to the suppression of protests earlier this year.

Tehran has consistently rejected such accusations, maintaining that its actions are in line with domestic law and national security priorities, while European officials defend the sanctions as necessary accountability measures.

The exchange highlights deepening tensions between Iran and the European Union, with both sides holding firm positions on sanctions, human rights, and diplomatic engagement.