Minister Anand announces additional sanctions against Iranian individuals obstructing navigation rights in and around the Strait of Hormuz
News release
August 14, 2026 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
Today, the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced that Canada is imposing additional sanctions against five individuals under the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations for their involvement in military, legal and communications activities, which undermine international peace, security and stability.
The sanctions target senior officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Iran), including members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for their activities that have threatened a critical international waterway, and obstructed navigation rights in and around the Strait of Hormuz, contrary to international law.
The measures align with allies’ and partners’ efforts to counter Iran’s destabilizing activities and malign influence in the Middle East and elsewhere. The sanctions also send a clear message of Canada’s continued condemnation of Iran’s destabilizing activities, including violations of international navigation rights in and around the Strait of Hormuz, which undermine international peace and security.
Canada will continue engaging with allies and partners to support diplomatic efforts to uphold navigation rights in accordance with international law. Canada stands ready to support efforts to stabilize the strait when conditions permit.
Quotes
“Freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz is essential to global trade and energy security. Today’s sanctions target individuals whose actions undermine these principles and threaten global economic and energy security. Canada calls on Iran to de-escalate and respect international navigation rights.”
- Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Quick facts
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Iran’s actions in and around the Strait of Hormuz have been widely condemned by Canada and the international community.
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In statements issued in March and June 2026, the foreign ministers of the G7 countries, including Canada’s, reaffirmed the importance of safeguarding maritime routes and the safety of navigation. They also reiterated the need to permanently restore safe and toll-free freedom of navigation in and around the Strait of Hormuz. They underscored the importance of minimizing the impact of the conflict on regional partners, civilian populations and civilian infrastructure, as well as the need to coordinate humanitarian aid efforts.
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On April 24, 2026, the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization called for the release of the 20,000 seafarers who are unable to leave the Persian Gulf and on June 23, announced an evacuation plan for seafarers.
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Canada has listed the IRGC as a terrorist organization under the Criminal Code of Canada. Canada has also listed the Houthis, Hamas, and Hezbollah as terrorist organizations under the Criminal Code.
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Canada has designated Iran as a foreign state supporter of terrorism under the State Immunity Act. The Government of Canada reconfirmed this designation in December 2025.
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With these latest measures, Canada has now sanctioned 232 Iranian individuals and 260 Iranian entities through SEMA Iran Regulations.
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