Washington, D.C (Washington Insider Magazine) — In response to the recent missile and drone attack on Israel, the United States and the United Kingdom have jointly announced a new set of sanctions targeting individuals and companies associated with Iran’s production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This move comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly following the conflict in Gaza.
The United States Treasury Department, working with UK authorities, has identified 16 individuals and two companies directly involved in the manufacture of UAV components, including engine types used in the recent attack. These actions are aimed at disrupting and deterring Iran’s activities in the drone industry, particularly those orchestrated by entities affiliated with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard’s Quds Force.
UK Joins US in Coordinated Sanctions
According to statements from US officials, the sanctions are part of a coordinated effort with the UK government, which has also imposed punitive measures against several Iranian organizations, individuals, and military entities involved in the UAV and ballistic missile industries. Accordingly, Downing Street has specified that seven individuals and six entities have been a target for their role in facilitating Iran’s destabilizing regional activities, including the recent attack on Israel.
Commitment to Israel’s Security
President Joe Biden has affirmed the United States‘ commitment to Israel’s security and its determination to hold Iran accountable for its actions. He emphasized that the sanctions are aimed at weakening Iran’s military capabilities and reiterated the US stance on defending its allies in the region.
Swift and Decisive Response
Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has emphasized the swift and decisive nature of the sanctions, describing them as a response to Iran’s unprecedented attack on Israel. She highlighted the use of economic tools to disrupt key aspects of Iran’s malign activity.
Expanding Sanctions Beyond the Drone Industry
According to Heraldo, In addition to targeting the drone industry, the US Treasury Department has also imposed sanctions on entities supplying components for steel production to the Juzestan Steel Company (KSC), one of Iran’s leading steel producers. This move aims to curtail Iran’s steel sector, which generates significant revenue through exports.
Further Restrictions on Iranian Entities
According to TimesofIndia, the Treasury has identified three subsidiaries of the Iranian automobile manufacturer Bahman Group for allegedly providing material support to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and other designated entities, including the Iranian Ministry of Defense.
These sanctions reflect the underway efforts of the United States and its allies to defy Iran’s behavior and protect regional stability. The coordinated action underscores the international community’s commitment to addressing security challenges in the Middle East.