BRUSSELS - The European Union on Monday formally adopted a package of new sanctions against Iran, targeting the country's foreign trade, banking and energy sectors.

The move, which was agreed to in principle by EU leaders in June, is the latest in a series of measures taken by the international community in an effort to halt Iran's nuclear program.

EU foreign ministers adopted a decision "on a package of restrictive measures" in the areas of trade, financial services, energy and transport, said a diplomat who spoke on condition of anonymity under standing rules.