WANA (Apr 21) – The U.S. Department of the Treasury has introduced a new round of sanctions against Iran, continuing its pressure campaign even as Washington emphasizes the need for negotiations with Tehran.

 

According to a statement released by the United States Department of the Treasury, the sanctions target 14 individuals, companies, and aircraft in Iran and Turkey. U.S. officials say the measures are aimed at increasing pressure over Iran’s alleged involvement in military-related activities.

 

As reported by CNN, Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, claimed: “Iran must be held accountable for extorting global energy markets and targeting civilians with missiles and drones.”

 

Part of the sanctions focuses on a Turkey-based company accused of sending “hundreds of cotton shipments” to an already sanctioned Iranian firm. The Treasury Department alleges that cotton can be converted into nitrocellulose, a material used to enhance the performance of solid-fuel rocket engines, which are commonly associated with ballistic missiles.

 

In addition, several individuals linked to Mahan Air have been sanctioned. Washington claims these measures are related to alleged support for Iran’s Quds Force.

 

These developments come as U.S. officials have repeatedly stressed the importance of negotiations with Iran in recent days, while continuing unilateral sanction measures.

 

Meanwhile, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of Iran’s Parliament, stated in a post on X that Iran will not engage in negotiations under pressure or threats.