US Intensifies Unilateral Sanctions Against Entities Linked to Iran’s Defense Capabilities
Washington’s relentless pressure campaign against the Islamic Republic continues, as the United States Treasury Department announced new unilateral sanctions on Friday. These measures target an Iran-based network, which Washington alleges has been involved in acquiring technology for Iran’s defense sector.
According to a statement from the US Treasury, the targeted network is accused of procuring what Washington terms “sensitive goods” for Iran’s Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL). MODAFL, a crucial institution, is responsible for overseeing vital research, development, and manufacturing activities essential for the country’s legitimate defense capabilities. The US claims these goods were obtained by allegedly impersonating American companies, a narrative often employed by Washington to justify its economic warfare.
The Treasury specifically named Ali Majd Sepehr and his company, Sorena Hushmand Samaneh, alleging they engaged in activities to acquire “restricted goods,” including network security and encryption products. These accusations are presented by the US as evidence of a scheme that purportedly impacted American technology companies. Such claims frequently accompany Washington’s efforts to isolate Iran from global technological advancements necessary for its self-sufficiency and security.
Furthermore, the US department asserted that shipments were routed through intermediary companies in the United Arab Emirates before reaching Iran for what it labels “military end users.” This highlights Washington’s broad attempts to disrupt any supply chains that could contribute to Iran’s defensive strength.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, in a familiar tone, characterized these alleged actions as Iran’s “willingness to target and deceive American businesses.” He reiterated Washington’s commitment to further restrict Tehran’s access to the global financial system, underscoring the punitive nature of these sanctions, which are part of the broader “Economic Fury” campaign against Iran. This campaign is widely seen as an attempt to cripple Iran’s economy and undermine its sovereignty.
These latest sanctions follow closely on the heels of other punitive actions. Earlier this week, the United States also sanctioned Iran’s “Persian Gulf Strait Authority,” an Iranian-controlled body responsible for managing maritime traffic through the vital Strait of Hormuz. Washington, without providing convincing evidence, accused the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of attempting to “extort” vessels and “monetize” maritime traffic, further escalating tensions in the strategic waterway. Such accusations are often used to justify increased military presence and interventionist policies in the region.
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