Iran missile programme

The United States has imposed sanctions on a range of individuals and entities from Iran, China, and Hong Kong, accusing them of involvement in the development of Iran’s missile and drone programmes.

The US Treasury Department announced these measures on Tuesday, targeting five individuals and seven entities. This move is part of an ongoing effort to curb Iran’s military capabilities, which the US views as a threat to regional and global stability.

According to sources, the sanctioned entities are accused of supplying key components such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, essential for guidance, navigation, and control systems in ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Among the entities named is the Chinese front company Beijing Shiny Nights Technology Development Company and the Iranian firm Electro Optic Sairan Industries.

The US Treasury’s Under Secretary, Brian Nelson, condemned Iran’s actions, stating, “Iran’s reckless proliferation of ballistic missiles and UAVs threatens further instability and endangers civilian lives both regionally and globally.” He emphasised that the US will continue to impose sanctions on those who assist Iran in producing lethal weapons.

The latest sanctions are a continuation of a series of actions taken by the US Treasury and State Department aimed at penalising those involved in the development of Iran’s missile and drone programmes. This initiative also seeks to prevent the transfer of Iranian drones to Russia, a concern that has been highlighted in previous US statements.

The imposition of sanctions on Chinese entities underscores the complex international web involved in Iran’s military procurement efforts. It also reflects the broader geopolitical tensions between the US and China, particularly regarding China’s role in supporting countries that the US considers adversaries.