TITLE: Canada Imposes Additional Sanctions Against Iranian Individuals Obstructing Strait of Hormuz Navigation
BODY:
On August 14, 2026, Global Affairs Canada announced that Canada is imposing additional sanctions against five individuals under the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations. The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, said the sanctions target senior officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran, including members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), for their involvement in military, legal, and communications activities that threaten international peace, security, and stability.
The individuals sanctioned are designated for activities that have obstructed navigation rights in and around the Strait of Hormuz, contrary to international law. Anand said: "Freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz is essential to global trade and energy security. Today's sanctions target individuals whose actions undermine these principles and threaten global economic and energy security." The measures align with efforts by Canada's allies and partners to counter Iran's destabilizing activities and malign influence in the Middle East. Canada's action reflects statements issued by G7 foreign ministers in March and June 2026, which reaffirmed the importance of safeguarding maritime routes and restoring safe, toll-free freedom of navigation in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
With these latest sanctions, Canada has now designated 232 Iranian individuals and 260 Iranian entities under the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations. Canada has previously listed the IRGC as a terrorist organization under the Criminal Code of Canada and designated Iran as a foreign state supporter of terrorism under the State Immunity Act, a designation reconfirmed in December 2025. Canada remains committed to engaging with allies and partners to support diplomatic efforts upholding navigation rights in accordance with international law and stands ready to support stabilization efforts when conditions permit.