WANA (Feb 27) – In its latest move against Iran, the U.S. Department of the Treasury has imposed sanctions on six entities and individuals in China and Hong Kong, accusing them of assisting in the procurement of “essential items needed for drone manufacturing” in Iran.

 

According to a statement released by the Treasury Department on Wednesday night, the sanctioned individuals and entities were allegedly collaborating with already-blacklisted Iranian companies, Pishgaman Kavosh Gostar Boshra and Narin Sepehr Mobin Isatis.

 

The department claimed: “The designated targets act as key brokers in the purchase and transfer of critical components to Pishgaman Kavosh Gostar Boshra and Narin Sepehr Mobin Isatis, which play a significant role in Iran’s missile program and drone production.”

 

Expansion of Sanctions Against China-Based Networks

This move follows a similar action in February 2024, when the Treasury Department sanctioned a network of Hong Kong-based companies over related allegations.

 

The department acknowledged that the latest sanctions are a continuation of the “maximum pressure campaign” initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump against Iran.

 

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated: “Iran continues to seek new ways to procure key components necessary to strengthen its weapons and drone program, utilizing new front companies and third-country suppliers. The Treasury remains committed to disrupting networks that enable Iran to export its lethal weapons to foreign actors, including terrorist proxy groups and destabilizing forces.”

 

Iran Rejects U.S. Allegations

Iran has consistently denied accusations of supporting terrorism, maintaining that it does not operate any proxy groups in the region. The latest U.S. sanctions come amid Washington’s stated desire to reach a new agreement with Iran regarding its nuclear program. However, Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, have reiterated that Tehran will not negotiate under pressure or sanctions.

 

During a joint press conference with his Russian counterpart, Araghchi emphasized: “Our stance on nuclear negotiations is clear. We will not negotiate under pressure, threats, or sanctions. As long as maximum pressure remains in place, there will be no direct negotiations between Iran and the U.S. on the nuclear issue.”