At a Glance
- 10 individuals and companies from Iran and Venezuela were sanctioned for their role in Iran’s drone and ballistic missile trade.
- Sanctions target a Venezuelan firm and its chairman, three Iranian men linked to missile-related chemicals, and Iran-based entities tied to Rayan Fan Group.
- The Treasury says the moves reinforce UN sanctions on Iran’s nuclear program and aim to squeeze the Islamic Republic.
- Why it matters: It expands U.S. pressure on Iran’s military capabilities and signals possible future strikes.
In a move to tighten pressure on Iran’s military-industrial complex, the U.S. Treasury announced sanctions against 10 individuals and companies linked to Iran’s drone and ballistic missile programs, including a Venezuelan firm and several Iranian actors. The sanctions are part of a broader U.S. strategy that also reimposes UN sanctions on Iran’s nuclear program and follows recent U.S. strikes on Iranian enrichment facilities. The announcement follows President Trump’s warning of further strikes and statements from Treasury and State officials.
Sanctions Overview
Treasury Department said the measures target a Venezuelan firm and its chairman accused of buying Iranian drones, three Iranian men linked to procurement of missile chemicals, and a group of Iran-based people and firms connected to Rayan Fan Group. These actions support UN sanctions on Iran’s nuclear program and aim to cut off financial support for Iran’s weapons. The sanctions are part of a broader U.S. strategy to squeeze the Islamic Republic.
- Venezuelan firm and its chairman
- Three Iranian men
- Iran-based group linked to Rayan Fan Group
Political Statements
President Trump, during talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida, warned Iran that the U.S. could carry out further military strikes if it attempts to reconstitute its nuclear program. Treasury Undersecretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence John K. Hurley said the Treasury is holding Iran and Venezuela accountable for their aggressive proliferation of deadly weapons and will continue swift action. State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said Iran’s continued provision of conventional weapons to Caracas threatens U.S. interests in the region.
John K. Hurley said:
> “Treasury is holding Iran and Venezuela accountable for their aggressive and reckless proliferation of deadly weapons around the world. We will continue to take swift action to deprive those who enable Iran’s military-industrial complex access to the U.S. financial system.”
Tommy Pigott said:
> “Iran continues to violate UN restrictions. Iran’s ongoing provision of conventional weapons to Caracas is a threat to U.S. interests in our region.”
Key Takeaways
- 10 sanctions target Iran and Venezuela for drone and missile trade.
- Sanctions include a Venezuelan firm, three Iranian men, and entities linked to Rayan Fan Group.
- U.S. officials warn of potential further strikes and continue to pressure Iran’s nuclear program.
The sanctions underscore the U.S. commitment to curbing Iran’s military buildup and signal that further pressure may be applied if Iran resumes its nuclear program. These measures aim to isolate Iran and its allies from the global financial system.
