US Sanctions Iran-Linked Network For Targeting American Firms To Acquire Sensitive Military Tech
The U.S. imposed sanctions on an Iran-linked procurement network, including Ali Majd Sepehr, for targeting American firms to acquire sensitive military tech like spectrum analyzers and security detection devices. Ten individuals and companies across Asia, Eastern Europe, and West Asia were also sanctioned for supporting Iran’s military procurement efforts, including components for Shahed-series drones and ballistic missiles under President Trump’s 'Economic Fury' campaign.
The United States announced sweeping sanctions on Friday against a 'sophisticated Iranian procurement network' accused of obtaining sensitive military technology through deception and sanctions evasion. The network, led by Iran-based Ali Majd Sepehr, impersonated and defrauded dozens of American technology companies to secure advanced equipment worth millions, including spectrum analyzers and security detection devices. The operation used fake websites, intermediaries in Dubai, and smuggling routes to bypass U.S. restrictions. The U.S. Treasury Department unveiled additional sanctions targeting 10 individuals and companies across West Asia, Asia, and Eastern Europe for supporting Iran’s military procurement efforts. These measures are part of President Donald Trump’s 'Economic Fury' campaign and broader 'maximum pressure' strategy to curb Iran’s weapons development programs. Among those sanctioned were China-based Yushita Shanghai International Trade Co Ltd and Hitex Insulation Ningbo Company Limited, Hong Kong-based AE International Trade Co Limited, HK Hesin Industry Co Limited, Mustad Limited, and Belarus-based Armoury Alliance LLC. The sanctions also targeted the Center for Progress and Development of Iran (CDPI), formerly known as the Center for Innovation and Technology Cooperation (CITC), accused of coordinating technology and weapons acquisitions for Iran. Treasury officials stated that some targeted entities helped procure components for Iran’s Shahed-series drones and ballistic missile programs, including servomotors recovered from downed Shahed-136 drones for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The U.S. Treasury clarified that all U.S.-based property and interests linked to the designated individuals and entities are now blocked, and foreign financial institutions engaging with them risk secondary sanctions. The measures aim to disrupt Iran’s military capabilities and regional influence while reinforcing the 'maximum pressure' strategy. The sanctions were framed as part of a broader effort to keep American forces safe by targeting foreign entities aiding Iran’s military procurement. The Treasury Department emphasized that these actions align with President Trump’s leadership in countering Iran’s weapons development and regional aggression.
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