The United States has announced a new round of sanctions aimed at Iran’s ballistic missile program. These sanctions target six individuals and 12 companies accused of helping Tehran develop the materials needed for missile manufacturing.
According to the US Treasury Department, the newly sanctioned entities supported Iran’s efforts to source critical materials domestically, including carbon fiber precursor materials essential for missile production.
Chinese Nationals Among Those Sanctioned
Among the individuals sanctioned are three Chinese nationals — Qin Jinhua, Qin Dehui, and Wang Chao. These individuals work for a China-based firm that exported carbon fiber materials to a previously sanctioned Iranian company. A Hong Kong-based company was also named in the sanctions list.
US Warns Against Iran’s Missile Capabilities
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that allowing Iran to develop intercontinental ballistic missiles would be a threat to both the United States and regional stability. He emphasized that these sanctions are part of efforts to halt Iran’s missile ambitions.
Tied to Broader Pressure Campaign
These sanctions come just a day after the US imposed new restrictions on Iran’s oil sales to China. The moves are part of the Trump administration’s “maximum pressure” campaign aimed at curbing Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities.
Sanctions Amid Ongoing Nuclear Talks
Despite the sanctions, diplomatic efforts continue. The United States and Iran recently held their fourth round of indirect talks, marking the highest level of contact since the US withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018.
The dual-track approach of diplomacy and pressure reflects Washington’s strategy to push Iran toward compliance while deterring its missile development activities.