Iran Sanctions: Origins and Potential Lifting

US President Donald Trump has recently called for additional sanctions against Iran, adding to one of the broadest sanction regimes imposed by Western countries. Sanctions on Iran date back to 1979, when the US froze Iranian assets after the hostage crisis at the US Embassy in Tehran. Over time, sanctions expanded due to concerns over Iran's nuclear program, human rights record, and support for armed groups. In 2016, many nuclear-related sanctions were lifted under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), a deal between Iran and world powers. Iran agreed to limit its uranium enrichment in exchange for relief. However, the US withdrew from the deal in 2018 and reimposed sanctions, leading Iran to increase enrichment. Recently, the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran, and negotiations to end hostilities have included discussions on sanctions relief. A memorandum of understanding in June 2026 suggested the US would terminate sanctions as part of a final agreement. However, the ceasefire has since collapsed, and the US has reinstated sanctions and a naval blockade. Lifting sanctions faces hurdles: many require congressional approval, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is designated a terrorist group by the US, EU, and UK. UN sanctions need approval from all five permanent Security Council members, while EU sanctions require unanimous consent from member states. Even if a deal is reached, human rights-related sanctions may remain.