Is Iran supplying ballistic missiles to Russia for the Ukraine war?
Al JazeeraSep 25
UK Halts Flights to Iran Over Supply of Missiles to Russia
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The Facts
Iran Air will no longer be allowed to fly into the UK after new sanctions — also put in place by the US, France, and Germany — were imposed on Iran for providing Russia with ballistic missiles for use in Ukraine.
The missiles were reportedly transferred to Russia following warnings, both public and private, that the action would be considered a "dramatic escalation," according to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
The Spin
Pro-Iran narrative
The basis for these sanctions is totally unsubstantiated. These punitive measures are deliberately antagonistic and reflect an outrageous double-standard, as the Western 'allies' that have sanctioned Iran over these allegations are the primary suppliers of weapons to the Israeli regime amid an ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people. The leaders who enacted these unjust sanctions should be held accountable.
Anti-Iran narrative
Iran provided ballistic missiles, training, and other military support to Russia in the full-knowledge that Moscow's illegal invasion and ongoing military activity in Ukraine directly threatens European security. This offense warranted the swift and serious response delivered. While some people may be inconvenienced by the impacts on Air Iran, this ban is one of several sanctions that will serve to deter future support for Russia.