EU Joins US Sanctions on Iran, South Korea Considers Military Aid

The European Union has officially joined the United States in imposing sanctions on Iran, a move that follows significant pressure from Washington on its allies. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant praised the EU's decision, calling it a "campaign of economic isolation" aimed at severing Tehran's access to the global financial system. Bessant stated on social media that the world is sending a clear message to the Iranian regime, vowing to dismantle every financial lifeline until its nuclear ambitions, weapons programs, and support for terrorism are halted.

The EU's statement, released on Monday, expressed support for efforts to curb Iran's "destabilizing activities" and encouraged a return to negotiations, partly through enhanced sanctions. The U.S. sanctions campaign, initiated in late August, targets Iran's access to digital assets, advanced technology, gold reserves, commercial aircraft, and ships.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson reacted negatively, accusing Europe of surrendering its sovereignty and values under American coercion. Meanwhile, South Korea is reportedly considering providing military assistance to U.S. efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping, according to Reuters. This consideration comes amid U.S. frustration with South Korea's previous reluctance to offer military support, which has led to reduced joint military exercises, including the cancellation of one planned for this month. A final decision on South Korea's military aid has not yet been made.