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Kuwait starts applying UN sanctions on Iran

KUWAIT CITY — The central bank of Kuwait has asked Gulf emirate banks, investment companies and money exchange firms to start implementing UN sanctions against neighbouring Iran, local media said on Friday.

The instructions called for the freezing of assets and financial resources related to “Iran’s sensitive nuclear programmes or activities,” said Al-Rai newspaper, citing a circular by the central bank.

The paper said the circular was based on a letter by the foreign ministry which stressed that the sanctions were mandatory.

In June, the United Nations and world powers imposed a fourth round of sanctions on Iran for refusing to suspend its controversial nuclear programme. The West believes the programme masks an atomic weapons drive but Tehran insists it is peaceful.

The circular bans the opening of branches or representative offices for Iranian banks in Kuwait and forbids Kuwaiti financial institutions from opening offices or accounts in Iran.

The central bank asked Kuwaiti financial institutions to exercise caution while making trade transactions with Iran-based establishments, including those controlled by the Revolutionary Guards and Iran’s marine transport company.