Canada Targets Ten Iranian Figures over Digital Rights Abuses
Ottawa adds five individuals and five groups to its sanctions list. The move cites internet shutdowns and censorship in Iran.
Key points
- Canada sanctioned five Iranian officials and five entities for rights violations.
- The measures cite nationwide internet shutdowns and censorship since 2009.
- Iranian officials publicly debated the value of recent diplomatic talks.
Canada sanctioned five Iranian officials and five entities this week. Global Affairs Canada announced the measures. They target human rights violations and censorship.
The action follows reports of severe internet restrictions in Iran. Officials say these limits hide abuses and stop protests. The move adds pressure on Tehran’s leadership.
Targets of the new sanctions list
The list includes Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni. It also names Davoud Moazami Goudarzi. He leads Greater Tehran’s Cyber Police unit. Rasoul Jalili serves on the Supreme Council of Cyberspace.
Mohsen Fathizadeh heads a law enforcement intelligence group. Ruhollah Momen Nasab leads a morality enforcement body. Five organizations were also targeted for their roles.
These entities include SATRA and Douran Group. They are accused of restricting speech online. Canada links them to broader state control efforts.
Context of internet shutdowns and protests
Canada states Iran cut internet access since 2009. It aimed to control information flow. This included the 2022 Woman, Life, Freedom movement.
In December 2025, Iran shut down the web. The outage lasted about three weeks. Protesters could not organize easily during this time.
Internal debate over diplomatic negotiations
Major General Yahya Rahim Safavi praised the government. He said leaving room for talks is wise. This supports President Pezeshkian’s negotiation stance.
However, lawmaker Ebrahim Rezaei criticized recent contacts. He called the meetings a sign of weakness. IRGC-affiliated media outlets agreed with his view.
