Iran has condemned the European Union's decision to impose sanctions on a number of Iranian officials, saying the move is politically motivated and a sign that the EU is following in the footsteps of the US, PRESS TV reported.
On Wednesday, the EU imposed a new round of sanctions, including asset freezes and travel bans, on 32 Iranian officials over alleged human rights abuses.
The measures were adopted at a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg.
The United States imposed similar sanctions on Iranian officials in September 2010.
Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast said the EU's latest move shows the bloc is incapable of adopting measures independent from Washington.