The United States has imposed sanctions on two individuals and a business entity accused of helping Iran acquire man-portable air-defence systems (MANPADS).
Announcing the measures on Wednesday, the US State Department said the action was intended to disrupt additional supply channels that Tehran allegedly uses to rebuild its military capabilities. It also warned that third-party intermediaries and suppliers involved in such transactions could face increased risks.
The individuals and organisation targeted by the sanctions include Mohammed Ali Tolibov, chief executive of Belarus-based Armory Alliance; Nigeria-based Vanguard Tactical Supply Limited; and Alisher Domullodzhanov, who is based in Russia.
According to the State Department, the alleged procurement network attempted to arrange the supply of Chinese-made MANPADS to Iran. Investigators said the network reportedly relied on false end-user information to facilitate the transactions and conceal the intended destination of the equipment.
Washington maintained that it would continue identifying and disrupting international networks suspected of supplying military equipment to Iran and its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The department also reiterated its commitment to restricting resources that it believes support Iran’s military activities and contribute to regional instability.
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