US targets 32 networks in new Iran missile, drone sanctions
“Washington blacklisted 32 people and firms across several countries for aiding Iran’s missile and drone programmes.”
Key points
- Washington blacklisted 32 people and firms across several countries for aiding Iran’s missile and drone programmes.
- The networks allegedly feed procurement and financing that threaten regional security and Red Sea shipping.
- Tehran rejects the claims as it faces intensifying US pressure.
The United States announced sanctions on 32 individuals and entities it says support Iran’s ballistic-missile and drone programmes. The targeted networks, spanning Iran, the UAE, Turkey, China, Hong Kong, India, Germany and Ukraine, allegedly procure components and financing that bolster Tehran’s weapons development, the Treasury Department said.
Washington argued the networks endanger US and allied personnel in the Middle East and threaten commercial shipping in the Red Sea. Iran has long maintained its nuclear effort is peaceful; the US, European partners and Israel accuse Tehran of seeking a weapons capability.
A senior Treasury official said the US is trying to seize a “moment” in Lebanon to squeeze funding to Hezbollah, claiming Iran has channelled about $1 billion to the group this year despite prior sanctions. Earlier steps targeted individuals accused of moving money through exchange houses.
The latest designations come amid a broader “maximum pressure” approach as diplomatic talks remain stalled and UN restrictions have been reinstated. Iran has deepened ties with Russia, China and regional states, but faces hyperinflation risks and a recession at home, US officials contend.
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