Sanctions Squeeze: U.S. Targets Iran's Missile Networks

In a significant move on Wednesday, the Trump administration announced sanctions targeting numerous companies and individuals involved in Iran's missile and military aircraft sectors. These actions are part of a broader strategy to enforce recently reimposed United Nations penalties aimed at curbing Iran's controversial nuclear program.

The sanctions include freezing Iranian assets abroad, halting arms transactions with Tehran, and penalizing efforts to develop Iran's ballistic missile capabilities. The U.S. Treasury Department identified 21 entities and 17 individuals aiding in the procurement of technology for surface-to-air missile systems and the illegal acquisition of a U.S.-manufactured helicopter by Iran.

These sanctions reflect collaboration among the Treasury, State, and Homeland Security Departments, and the FBI, targeting networks operating from Iran, Hong Kong, China, and other countries. As Iran's economy faces increasing pressure, its rial currency plunges to record lows, causing rising food prices and economic strain on its citizens amidst ongoing international isolation.

(With inputs from agencies.)