WANA (Oct 17) – New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced today that his country will reinstate sanctions against Iran, citing Tehran’s violation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The measures will take effect on October 18, 2025.

 

October 18 marks a historic day for Iran and other JCPOA participants, as United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231 officially expires.

 

Peters stated, “The reimposition of UN-backed sanctions reflects the international community’s deep concern over Iran’s non-compliance with its nuclear commitments and the unjustifiable level of uranium enrichment in the country.”

 

He emphasized that New Zealand has consistently supported diplomatic efforts to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons worldwide and urged Iran to return to negotiations and fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

 

The minister did not mention that Iran and the United States were on the verge of reaching an agreement for the U.S. to return to its JCPOA obligations when Israel attacked Iran on June 13, followed by U.S. involvement in the illegal aggression on July 23, aimed at supporting Israel.

 

New Zealand, a member of the “Five Eyes” intelligence alliance along with the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia, also announced that starting February 1, 2026, it will implement a mandatory registration scheme for New Zealand citizens engaging in economic activities with Iran.

 

This move follows similar sanctions reinstated by the U.K., France, and Germany, citing Tehran’s violations. In August, Australia accused Iran of orchestrating two antisemitic arson attacks in Sydney and Melbourne.

 

According to the New Zealand Foreign Ministry, the sanctions will include asset freezes, travel bans for designated individuals, restrictions on imports and exports of certain nuclear and military items, and mandatory caution for New Zealanders conducting business with Iran.

New Zealand's Foreign Minister, Winston Peters

New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Winston Peters. Social media/ WANA News Agency