German journalist and analyst Martin Lejeune has voiced concerns over the potential impacts of European Union (EU) sanctions on Iran in a statement to Ednews.
Lejeune highlighted that the EU initiated sanctions in 2022 against individuals and organizations implicated in serious human rights violations in Iran. These measures prohibit EU citizens and companies from providing financial support to the sanctioned entities, which could significantly influence Iran's foreign policy.
Economic Strain: Lejeune emphasized that EU sanctions might limit Iran's access to international financial markets, impose trade restrictions, and hinder access to crucial technologies and resources, potentially leading to economic hardships and prompting Iran to reassess its foreign policy approach.
Diplomatic Isolation: He pointed out that the EU's actions may encourage member states and other countries to follow suit, increasing Iran's diplomatic isolation. This could impact Iran's ability to pursue its foreign policy objectives through negotiation and diplomacy.
Empowerment of Hardliners: Lejeune warned that sanctions could bolster hardline factions within Iran, who may argue for a tougher foreign policy stance in response to perceived hostility from the EU and other international actors.
Shifting Priorities: Lejeune suggested that EU sanctions might compel Iran to reconsider its foreign policy priorities, potentially leading to compromises to ease or lift sanctions and introducing flexibility in Iranian foreign policy.
Seeking Alternatives: Lejeune speculated that Iran could explore alternative partnerships and markets beyond the EU to mitigate the impact of sanctions, potentially reshaping its foreign policy orientation towards regions like Asia or Russia.
Lejeune cautioned that while EU sanctions could constrain Iran's foreign policy options, they might not offer a swift resolution to conflicts with the Iranian regime, as the regime often deflects blame onto external factors and the population bears the brunt of the consequences.
