[EU Expands Sanctions on Iran, Including Actions 'Threatening Freedom of Navigation in the Middle East'] According to a report by Jinse Finance on May 22, citing CCTV, the EU Council decided on May 22 local time to expand the legal framework for sanctions against Iran, incorporating actions by Iran that 'threaten freedom of navigation in the Middle East' into the scope of sanctions. The EU Council issued a statement on the same day, stating that this revision is an adjustment based on the EU's existing restrictive measures against Iran. Following the revision, the EU will impose sanctions on individuals and entities involved in or supporting Iran's actions and policies that 'threaten freedom of navigation in the Middle East.' Under the revised legal framework, the EU can implement restrictive measures such as travel bans and asset freezes on relevant individuals and entities, and prohibit EU citizens and companies from providing them with funds, financial assets, or economic resources.