The European Union has sanctioned seven Iranian officials over the detention of EU citizens, citing politically motivated actions and poor prison conditions. Asset freezes and travel bans were imposed on judges and prison officials, including Hedayatollah Farzadi of Evin Prison, known for human rights violations. The EU condemned the unlawful detention of hostages and the unjust trials in Shiraz. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot criticized Iran's actions as state policy of hostage-taking and warned against travel to Iran. Recent cases include the release of Frenchman Olivier Grondeau after 880 days in prison and the arrest of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala. Teljes cikk (Euronews.com)