NZ Reimposes Sanctions on Iran Over Nuclear Concerns, Citing JCPOA Violations

The move follows Iran’s continued non-compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)—an internationally endorsed nuclear accord signed in 2015.

New Zealand has officially reinstated a comprehensive set of sanctions against Iran, reflecting growing international alarm over Tehran’s failure to meet its nuclear obligations. The announcement, made by Foreign Minister Winston Peters, underscores New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to global nuclear non-proliferation efforts and its support for upholding the integrity of international agreements.

Sanctions Prompted by Iran’s Breach of Nuclear Deal

The move follows Iran’s continued non-compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)—an internationally endorsed nuclear accord signed in 2015. The agreement, reached between Iran and six major world powers (China, France, Germany, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States), was designed to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanctions relief. However, following the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018 and Iran’s subsequent scaling back of its commitments, concerns have mounted regarding Tehran’s accelerated uranium enrichment and lack of transparency with nuclear inspectors.

“The 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,” Foreign Minister Peters stated.

Scope of the Sanctions: Asset Freezes, Travel Bans, and Trade Restrictions

The reinstated measures are outlined in the United Nations Sanctions (Iran) Regulations 2025, which take effect on 18 October 2025. These regulations include:

• Asset freezes and travel bans on individuals and entities designated under the UN’s Iran sanctions list.

• Import and export bans on a range of military, nuclear, and dual-use goods and technologies.

• A requirement for all New Zealanders to exercise vigilance in any commercial or financial dealings with Iranian counterparts.

The goal, according to Mr. Peters, is to exert diplomatic pressure while ensuring New Zealand does not become a conduit for nuclear proliferation or illicit trade.

Business Registration Scheme to Take Effect in 2026

Looking ahead, New Zealand will introduce a compulsory business registration scheme for its citizens and companies engaging in trade with Iran. The scheme will be operational from 1 February 2026 and is designed to monitor and regulate legitimate commercial interactions, ensuring compliance with the new sanctions framework.

“This registration scheme aims to ensure that legitimate trade with Iran can continue, but that the necessary degree of vigilance is being exercised,” Mr Peters said.

While the sanctions are restrictive, the government acknowledges that certain legitimate humanitarian or commercial activities—particularly those not linked to Iran’s nuclear or military programs—may still proceed, albeit under careful oversight.

A Call for Diplomacy and Renewed Cooperation

New Zealand’s decision aligns with broader international sentiment urging Iran to return to the negotiating table and fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The IAEA has repeatedly raised alarms over Iran’s enrichment of uranium to near weapons-grade levels and its failure to provide satisfactory answers about undeclared nuclear sites.

“New Zealand has consistently supported diplomatic efforts to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons from any source,” Peters noted. “We strongly encourage Iran to re-engage in negotiations and resume full cooperation with the IAEA.”

Global Implications and Regional Stability

New Zealand’s renewed sanctions come at a time of heightened geopolitical tension in the Middle East, where Iran’s nuclear ambitions continue to fuel uncertainty. By reinforcing the JCPOA’s core principles and aligning with UN mandates, New Zealand joins a growing list of countries taking concrete steps to uphold non-proliferation norms.

While the path forward remains uncertain, Wellington’s approach is clear: firm action coupled with a willingness to support renewed dialogue.