Six companies including a Brunei-based firm were slapped with sanctions by the United States allegedly for supplying sensitive goods to an Iranian military firm.
According to a report by Al Jazeera, the US Treasury Department blacklisted Brunei-based Soltech Industry Co, Ltd; Iran-based Hoda Trading; Hong Kong-based Proma Industry Co, Ltd; DES International Co, Ltd; China-based Naz Technology Co, Ltd; and Iran-based Artin San’at Tabaan Company as well as several individuals linked to the firms.
The US accused the firms and individuals of facilitating the procurement of sensitive goods, including US-origin electronic components, for Iran Communication Industries an Iranian military company that was blacklisted by Washington and the European Union.
According to the Treasury Department, the blacklisted company produces military communication systems, avionics, and missile launchers, among other items.
The charges were the US’ latest move to increase pressure on Iran.
The latest move, taken under an authority that imposes sanctions on weapons of mass destruction proliferators and their supporters, freezes any US assets of those blacklisted and generally bars Americans from dealing with them.
“The Iranian regime utilizes a global network of companies to advance its destabilizing military capabilities,” Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin was quoted as saying in a statement.
“The United States will continue to take action against those who help to support the regime’s militarization and proliferation efforts,” he added.
Tensions between Iran and the US have soared since US President Donald Trump assumed office and unilaterally withdrew in 2018 from the Iran nuclear deal struck by ex-president Barack Obama.
Following the withdrawal, a series of US sanctions that had been eased under the accord have been reimposed.
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