The Council significantly broadened EU restrictive measures against Iran, given the EU's serious and deepening concerns over Iran's nuclear programme. In addition, sanctions against the Syrian regime were once more strengthened by the EU. Also, with regard to Belarus, the Council was very concerned about increased acts of harassment and repression of civil society and political opposition as well as a diplomatic crisis with Sweden.

The Council reinforced EU sanctions against the Syrian regime, given the intensifying violence in Syria. The Council added 28 persons responsible for the violent repression against the civilian population to the list of those subject to a travel ban and an asset freeze. At the same time, two additional entities were targeted with a freeze of their assets in the EU. The Council also took further steps in respect of arms, prohibiting the import into the EU of arms from Syria, or any EU involvement in the transport of Syrian arms. The Council also banned EU nationals and enterprises from supplying financial services to Syrian arms exports, including insurance and re-insurance. Finally, the Council also denied all flights operated by Syrian Arab Airlines access to EU airports, which is also subject to an asset freeze. On the other hand, the EU recently doubled the aid for humanitarian needs in Syria.

With regard to Iran, the EU strengthened sanctions over lack of progress in nuclear talks. The Council reiterated its serious and deepening concerns over Iran's nuclear programme and the urgent need for Iran to comply with all its international obligations. At the same time, it reaffirmed the EU's longstanding commitment to work for a diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear issue in accordance with the dual track approach.

On Belarus, the Council reiterates its calls for the immediate release and rehabilitation of all remaining political prisoners. According to the Council, the parliamentary elections in Belarus were yet another missed opportunity to conduct elections in line with international standards. Moreover, ministers are very concerned about increased acts of harassment and repression of civil society and political opposition as well as a diplomatic crisis with Sweden. The EU stressed that its readiness to support any positive developments, but also react to any further deterioration. The Council reiterated again that the choice is with the authorities of Belarus.