The UK prepares for Iran (Sanctions) (Amendment) Regulations 2026 to enter into force on 29 September

In a major development in the UK, the Iran (Sanctions) (Amendment) Regulations 2026 was laid in the UK Parliament. The legislation, which enters in force on 29 September imposes (previously announced) further sectoral sanctions on Iran, broadly corresponding to measures lifted by the UK and partners as part of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.  It follows the UK complying with UN sanctions obligations relating to the snapback of UN Iran sanctions in October 2025. New legislation includes financial measures to reduce the ability of the Government of Iran to access the UK financial systems. It will also bring forward trade prohibitions targeting significant industries advancing Iran's nuclear escalation, including the energy, metals, gold, and software sectors, and related activities such as shipping, insurance and banking. Concurrently, the OTSI issued NTE 2026/18 expanding the UK’s sanctions regime against Iran, introducing new financial, trade and transport restrictions, alongside a set of new Schedules (1A to 1I) setting out controlled goods and technology, and also updated NTI 2946. Further, the OTSI announced that subject to parliamentary approval, certain trade activities related to Shah Deniz will be permitted via a new OTSI general licence, and accordingly guidance was issued.