New Legislation to Address Iranian Nuclear Threats
Today marks a significant step in our legislative efforts aimed at curbing Iranian nuclear activities and other aggressive actions emanating from Iran. The persistent opacity surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme has long been a source of grave concern for global peace and security. The Iranian government has repeatedly demonstrated an unwillingness to engage in good faith discussions regarding these critical issues. For more than twenty years, the international community has sought transparency and assurances about the true nature of Iran’s nuclear ambitions, which have expanded without any credible justification for civilian use. Notably, Iran has amassed over 400kg of uranium enriched to 60%, a level of enrichment not seen in any other non-nuclear weapons state.
On 1 October 2025, the UK fulfilled its obligations under the United Nations to reinstate sanctions against Iran, with the Iran (Sanctions) (Nuclear) (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 coming into effect. In a proactive measure, the UK also designated 71 individuals and entities associated with Iran’s nuclear programme, including key players in the financial and energy sectors.
Strengthening Sanctions through New Regulations
Following the commitments outlined by my predecessor in the House on 13 October 2025 and reiterated on 13 January 2026, the UK is now poised to introduce further legislative measures targeting Iran. Today, I am presenting ‘The Iran (Sanctions) (Amendment) Regulations 2026’, which will amend both The Iran (Sanctions) Regulations 2023 and The Iran (Sanctions) (Nuclear) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.
This new legislation reinstates sectoral measures that were previously lifted as part of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, thereby reinforcing our efforts to limit Iran’s nuclear aspirations. The financial sanctions imposed will significantly hinder the Iranian government’s ability to access the UK financial system and raise funds for its nuclear initiatives. Trade restrictions will also be broadened to encompass additional goods, technologies, and services that are vital to industries contributing to Iran’s nuclear advancement, including energy, software, metals, gold, and related sectors like shipping, insurance, and banking. Furthermore, the export of essential goods and technologies linked to Iran’s conventional weaponry and nuclear capabilities will be explicitly prohibited.
Enhancing Maritime Sanctions and Protective Measures
In addition to these measures, the legislation will enhance our authority to sanction vessels that support Iran’s nuclear programme and other destabilising activities. As part of our responsible sanctions policy, this legislation includes carefully crafted mitigations to minimise unintended consequences.
Among these is the provision for general licences that will allow the continued operation of the Shah Deniz gas field in Azerbaijan, which is crucial for supplying energy to our European partners. This approach aligns us with similar policies adopted by the EU and the US, ensuring that our actions do not hinder critical energy supplies.
Commitment to Diplomacy and Long-term Solutions
Through these measures, the UK government reaffirms its commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and strengthening sanctions to diminish Iran’s hostile capabilities. The international community has long regarded Iran’s nuclear programme as a significant threat, and the nation continues to be in substantial non-compliance with its international safeguards obligations.
Ultimately, a negotiated resolution remains the sole sustainable solution to the challenges posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The UK remains steadfast in its pursuit of a comprehensive diplomatic solution that guarantees Iran will never develop a nuclear weapon.