The EU foreign policy chief has slammed Iran’s handling of protests as unjustifiable and unacceptable, hinting that the European Union may issue sanctions over the crackdown. 

In a statement on behalf of the EU, Josep Borrell said that “despite repeated calls for restraint, the response of the Iranian security and police forces to demonstrations has been disproportionate and resulted in the loss of lives as well as a large number of injuries.”

“The EU and its member states urge the Iranian authorities to strictly abide by the principles enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Iran is a party,” he said, calling on the Islamic Republic “to immediately stop the violent crackdown on protests and ensure internet access, as well as the free flow of information.”

The statement also urged “Iran to clarify the number of deaths and arrested, release all non-violent protestors and provide due process to all detainees.”

The EU also said the killing of Mahsa Amini – whose death in custody of hijab police triggered -- must be duly investigated and any proved responsible for her death must be held accountable.

“The European Union will continue to consider all the options at its disposal ahead of the next Foreign Affairs Council, to address the killing of Mahsa Amini and the way Iranian security forces have responded to the ensuing demonstrations,” read the statement. 

The Wall Street Journal’s journalist Laurence Norman quoted some unnamed diplomats as telling him on Sunday that "There will be EU sanctions on Iran over its crackdown on the protests.”