US imposes fresh Iran-related sanctions

The United States on Thursday imposed fresh Iran-related sanctions, targeting dozens of individuals, entities, and vessels, according to the Treasury Department website. This action marks the first sanctions against Iran since US President Donald Trump took office on January 20.

The sanctions are similar to measures previously taken by the Obama administration against Iran's ballistic missile network. The designations focus on areas that remain under sanctions even with the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the JCPOA, in place, such as the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and Iran's ballistic missile program.

The Treasury Department stated that the action is part of ongoing efforts to counter Iranian malign activity abroad that falls outside the scope of the JCPOA. Among those sanctioned were companies, individuals, and brokers identified as supporting a trade network operated by Iranian businessman Abdollah Asgharzadeh. Asgharzadeh reportedly supported Shahid Hemmat Industrial Group, which the US has identified as a subsidiary of an Iranian entity responsible for Iran's ballistic missile program. Additionally, a network based in Lebanon and run by the IRGC was sanctioned.