The federal government has formally banned the top echelons of the Iranian regime from Canada, with a new, rarely used designation now in place that allows border agents to deny foreigners access to the country.
Federal cabinet ministers confirmed during a virtual press conference on Monday that the measure brought in through the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act promised more than a month ago has now come into effect.
It also allows Canadian authorities to investigate any Iranian officials who are already in Canada, the ministers confirmed.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Oct. 7 an intention to pursue the measure, along with $76 million in funding to better implement economic sanctions it has levied against Iran amid its crackdown on human-rights protesters….