Recent Zealand has joined a growing international coalition in imposing travel bans on Iranian officials accused of human rights abuses and involvement in the violent suppression of protests. The move, announced by Foreign Minister Winston Peters on February 25, 2026, targets 40 individuals, including key ministers and members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and three individuals implicated in Iran’s “malign activity abroad.”
The sanctions reflect growing international condemnation of the Iranian government’s response to widespread protests that erupted in recent months. Peters stated that Iranians have a right to peaceful protest, freedom of expression, and access to information, rights he said have been “ruthlessly violated.” The government’s action underscores New Zealand’s commitment to upholding international norms and holding those responsible for human rights violations accountable. This latest action builds on previous sanctions, bringing the total number of individuals banned from entering New Zealand to 84.
Targeted Individuals and Entities
Among those specifically named in the travel ban are Minister of the Interior Eskandar Momeni, Minister of Intelligence Esmail Khatib, and Prosecutor-General Mohammad Movahedi-Azad. The bans prevent these individuals, and others identified by the government, from entering or transiting through New Zealand. According to Peters, the actions are a direct response to the “brutal killing of thousands of protestors in Iran.”
New Zealand’s decision aligns with similar measures taken by Australia, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Canada, and the United States. The coordinated international response signals a unified front against Iran’s actions. The government also stated that 29 Iranian individuals and 19 Iranian entities have been sanctioned for providing support to Russia’s war in Ukraine, demonstrating a broader concern over Iran’s destabilizing activities.
International Condemnation and Regional Stability
Peters emphasized that Iran’s actions are “totally outside the norms of acceptable state behaviour.” The travel bans are intended to send a clear message that those who disregard human life will not be welcomed in New Zealand. The move is part of a broader effort to pressure the Iranian regime to respect human rights and engage in constructive dialogue.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) has published a list of the banned individuals on its website for public access. MFAT’s website provides further information on New Zealand’s relationship with Iran and its concerns regarding the human rights situation.
New Zealand’s previous sanctions included three tranches of travel bans on 55 individuals responsible for human rights violations in Iran. The government has consistently condemned the violence and repression in Iran, calling upon Iranian security forces to respect the rights of protestors. The Prime Minister’s office confirmed the government’s commitment to working with international partners to address the situation.
The decision to impose these travel bans comes amid ongoing international scrutiny of Iran’s internal policies and its role in regional conflicts. Mirage News reported on the announcement, highlighting the government’s firm stance against human rights abuses.
Looking ahead, New Zealand will continue to monitor the situation in Iran and assess further steps in coordination with its international partners. The government remains committed to upholding international law and promoting regional stability. The effectiveness of these travel bans will depend on continued international cooperation and a sustained commitment to holding the Iranian regime accountable for its actions.
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