Australia slaps further sanctions on Iranians

The death of Mahsa Amini led to widespread protests by women across Iran. (James Ross/AAP PHOTOS)

Australia is imposing financial sanctions and travel bans on a further five Iranians, on the second anniversary of the jailing and death of Mahsa Jina Amini.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong has announced sanctions on senior security and law enforcement officials who have been involved in the "violent repression" of protests in Iran.

The 22-year-old woman was arrested in September 2022 for "improperly" wearing her hijab and died in custody.

Her death led to widespread protests by women across Iran.

Senator Wong said the human rights situation in Iran remained "dire", as female activists continued to be detained and handed death sentences.

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong
Penny Wong says women in Iran are being deprived of their human rights.

"Australia stands with Iranian women and girls in their struggle for equality and empowerment," she said on Monday.

The government has now sanctioned 195 Iran-linked individuals and entities, including those with ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Opposition foreign spokesman Simon Birmingham marked the anniversary of Ms Amini's death.

"For two long years, Iranian women and girls have shown bravery to fight for their basic human rights and Australia’s position should reflect their courage," he said.

"We join with the diaspora community in urging the government to take stronger action and reiterate our bipartisan support for them to do so."

Senator Birmingham urged the government to adopt a Senate inquiry's recommendation to take the steps needed to list the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp a terrorist group.

"Australia should play our part in holding the regime accountable for its abhorrent actions," he said.

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