U.S. Sanctions Network Backing Iran's Attack UAV Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a decisive move, the United States Department of State announced today the imposition of sanctions on a transnational procurement network known to be linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). This network, consisting of five entities and two individuals based in Iran, the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Hong Kong, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates, has been actively involved in acquiring sensitive components for Iran’s one-way attack unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) program.

The focal point of concern is Iran's supply of arms, including Shahed-136 UAVs, to support Russia's illegal war against Ukraine. Notably, one of the servomotors procured by the network, which has now been designated for sanctions, was recovered from the remnants of a Russia-operated Shahed-136 UAV recently shot down in Ukraine.

The U.S. government remains steadfast in its commitment to taking actions against those entities that actively support Russia's war machine, particularly in the provision of weapons that target Ukraine's people and critical civil infrastructure.

Matthew Miller, Spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, commented: "The United States condemns any activity that fuels violence and aggression in the world. This designation sends a clear message that we will not tolerate the proliferation of dangerous weaponry that exacerbates ongoing conflicts, including Russia's illegal war in Ukraine."

Key Highlights of the Sanctions:

• Entities: Five entities involved in the procurement network have been sanctioned. Their assets within U.S. jurisdiction will be frozen, and American citizens are prohibited from engaging in any transactions with them.

• Individuals: Two individuals associated with the network have also been designated for sanctions, and their entry into the United States is now barred.

• Global Network: The network operates across multiple countries, including Iran, the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates. The sanctions aim to disrupt their illicit operations and deter future efforts to support Iran's UAV program.

• Counteracting Aggression: This action underscores the United States' commitment to thwarting the supply chain of weapons used in Russia's war against Ukraine, which continues to inflict severe suffering on innocent civilians.

• Treasury Department's Involvement: The Department of the Treasury will provide further details and updates on the sanctions.

For additional information regarding today's sanctions and the entities targeted, please refer to the Department of the Treasury's official statement.

The United States' determination to halt the flow of weaponry that contributes to global instability remains unwavering. As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely to see how these sanctions will impact the procurement network and the larger efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.