Continuing Pressure on Iran’s Nuclear Program

On October 18, 2023, Canada registered the “Regulations Amending the Regulations Implementing the United Nations Resolutions on Iran” (SOR/2023-219) to the enforcement of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231 (UNSCR 2231), which was adopted on July 20, 2015. These amendments are designed to address ongoing concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, particularly as certain provisions of UNSCR were set to expire.
Since 2006, Canada has imposed sanctions on Iran due to its nuclear program, which were further enhanced through the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations (SEMA) in 2010. These actions aligned with similar measures from the U.S., EU, and other allies, reflecting a broad international consensus on the threats posed by Iran’s activities to international peace and security. The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) sought to limit Iran’s nuclear ambitions and resulted in sanctions relief following key milestones. However, persistent concerns about Iran’s missile development and regional destabilization led Canada to maintain strict controls on sensitive goods and technologies.
This initiative aligns with Canada’s foreign policy objectives, which focus on accountability and international cooperation concerning Iran. The regulatory changes reflect Canada’s intention of maintaining pressure on Iran to fulfill its international obligations related to nuclear proliferation.
The recent amendments include the repeal of specific sections of the existing Regulations Implementing the United Nations Resolutions on Iran that are set to expire under UNSCR 2231, particularly paragraphs 4(1)(d) to (g). In their place, new sections impose stringent prohibitions on the export of military and dual-use items to Iran. This includes a ban on items related to the Missile Technology Control Regime, restrictions on arms and military equipment exports, and limitations on providing financial services and technical assistance related to these items. Additionally, eighteen individuals and 56 entities have been added to the SEMA Iran Regulations list, making them subject to asset freezes. These entities are linked to Iran’s nuclear proliferation activities and include senior officials from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
By extending and mirroring the prohibitions that were due to expire under UNSCR 2231, Canada’s intention is to reinforce its commitment to international security and seeks compliance from the Iranian regime.
Canada (SOR/2023-219) November 8, 2023