In a move aimed at addressing the alleged violent repression of women and girls in Iran, the Canadian government has announced new sanctions against two individuals from the country. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly unveiled the decision on International Women’s Day.
Ms. Joly highlighted the deteriorating conditions faced by Iranian women and girls, emphasizing the grave risks they encounter for expressing themselves or advocating for fundamental rights in an increasingly repressive environment.
The imposition of sanctions marks a continuation of Canada’s response since the tragic death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in 2022. Ms. Amini passed away while in police custody, reportedly detained for a perceived infraction related to her hijab.
Among those targeted by the sanctions are Masoud Dorosti, the chief executive of Tehran’s metro system, responsible for enforcing Iran’s mandatory hijab law on public transit. Additionally, Zohreh Elahian, a conservative politician known for advocating for severe penalties, including the death penalty, for participants of the “Women, Life, Freedom” movement, faces sanctions.
According to Ms. Joly’s office, both Dorosti and Elahian have utilized their positions to endorse or implement increasingly oppressive measures against women and girls in Iran.
Individuals listed under these sanctions are barred from entering Canada and are prohibited from engaging in any business activities with Canadians.
