US Imposes Sanctions on Iran’s UAV, Missile Procurement Networks
News Desk
Washington: The United States has imposed sanctions on six entities and two individuals based in Iran, the UAE, and China for their involvement in procuring critical components for Iran’s UAV and ballistic missile programs.
In a statement, the US State Department emphasized that the move is part of efforts to disrupt Iran-based Qods Aviation Industries, a US-sanctioned entity responsible for securing equipment for Iran’s military-industrial complex and UAV program.
“The United States will use all available means to expose and disrupt Iran’s growing UAV and missile development programs, which contribute to regional instability,” the statement read. The department further affirmed its commitment to countering Iran’s efforts to obscure its procurement of sensitive technology through third countries.
The statement also noted that Iran utilizes these technologies and proceeds from arms sales to strengthen its military capabilities, supplying missiles and UAVs to Russia, terrorist proxy groups across the Middle East, and other concerning actors.
The US Treasury Department imposed these sanctions under Executive Order 13382, designed to curb the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their enablers.
US Expands Visa Restrictions on Chinese Officials
Separately, the US government has imposed additional visa restrictions on Chinese officials accused of obstructing access to the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) for American diplomats, journalists, and international observers.
Citing the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act of 2018, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that while Beijing restricts foreign access to Tibet, Chinese diplomats and journalists enjoy broad entry privileges in the United States.
“For too long, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has barred US officials and international observers from Tibet, preventing them from engaging with local communities, while Chinese representatives operate freely in the US,” Rubio noted.
He added that these restrictions limit US diplomats’ ability to assist American citizens traveling in Tibet, reinforcing concerns over China’s strict control of the region.
The US has vowed to continue pushing for reciprocal access to Tibet and advocating for the rights of Tibetans under Beijing’s rule.
