WANA (Apr 29) – The United States Department of the Treasury has imposed sanctions on several Iranian and Chinese individuals and entities allegedly involved in supporting Iran’s ballistic missile program.

 

The Treasury Department announced the designation of six entities and six individuals based in Iran and the People’s Republic of China. The sanctions target those accused of facilitating the procurement of raw materials for Iran’s ballistic missile development.

 

U.S. Under Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent described Iran’s missile and military advancements as “aggressive,” claiming that such efforts threaten regional stability and endanger the security of the United States and its allies. He asserted that the new sanctions aim to “achieve peace through strength.”

 

The Treasury’s statement alleges that the sanctioned parties helped procure sodium perchlorate and dioctyl sebacate from China and facilitated their transfer to Iran.

 

“The Treasury Department will continue to take all necessary actions to deprive Iran of the resources it needs to advance its missile program,” the statement read.

 

Iranian officials, however, have repeatedly emphasized that the country’s missile program is purely defensive and falls within Iran’s legitimate national rights. They have also argued that Western interference in this area violates Iran’s sovereignty and national security.