New Zealand said on Friday it would reimpose United Nations sanctions on Iran, citing Tehran’s failure to comply with its nuclear obligations under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, with the measures to take effect on October 18.
The measures respond to Iran’s continued non-compliance with the internationally recognized nuclear accord and will take effect on October 18, Foreign Minister Winston Peters said.
The sanctions restore restrictions on trade and travel, mirroring steps already taken by Britain, France and Germany, which last month reinstated UN penalties over similar breaches.
“This reimposition of UN-mandated sanctions reflects the international community’s deep concerns about Iran’s non-compliance with its nuclear obligations and unjustifiable levels of uranium enrichment activity,” Peters said.
In a confidential report leaked to reporters in September, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said Iran's stock of near-weapons grade uranium had increased almost eight percent before Israel attacked its nuclear facilities on June 13.
The report shows Iran had 440.9 kilograms (972 pounds) of uranium enriched up to 60%, marking a 7.9% increase since the UN nuclear watchdog’s previous report in May.
Iran insists its nuclear program is for civilian use and denies pursuing the development or acquisition of nuclear weapons.
The statement by Peters outlined a range of restrictions including an asset freeze and travel bans on sanctioned persons, import and export bans on specified nuclear and military goods, and an obligation for New Zealanders to exercise vigilance in all dealings with Iran.
New Zealand “has consistently supported diplomatic efforts to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons from any source” and encouraged Tehran to “re-engage in negotiations and resume full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency,” Peters added.
The move aligns Wellington with Western allies that have intensified measures against Iran following recent findings by the IAEA indicating serious safeguards violations and rising uranium enrichment.
New Zealand will introduce a compulsory registration scheme for citizens doing business with Iran from February 1, 2026, Peters said.
