US sanctions target Iranian drone and missile programs

The US State Department announced sanctions on eight individuals and four entities that it said operate procurement networks that support Iran’s drone and ballistic missile programs, in addition to Mahan Air, which is listed on the sanctions lists.

The State Department stated that the sanctions target eight individuals and four entities that operate multiple procurement networks that support Iran’s drone programs (UAV) and ballistic missiles, in addition to Mahan Air, which is included on the US sanctions lists.

The United States also classifies two planes as prohibited property belonging to Mahan Air, which has previously transported members of the Revolutionary Guard, as well as weapons, equipment, and money.

She added in a statement that these measures come in support of what she described as “Operation Epic Rage” and in implementation of President Donald Trump’s directives aimed at confronting Iran’s weapons programs.

She stated that Washington will continue all available means to detect, disrupt, and confront Iranian activities that pose a threat, in order to protect American interests.

The Department of the Treasury took this action pursuant to Executive Order 13382, which targets WMD proliferators and their supporters; and Executive Order No. 13224 (as amended), which targets terrorist groups and their supporters.