In a recent development, the United States has announced sanctions on over a dozen companies, individuals, and vessels, including three entities based in India. These sanctions are a result of their involvement in facilitating illicit trade and transferring unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on behalf of the Iranian military.
According to the US Department of Treasury, these companies, individuals, and vessels have played a significant role in facilitating and financing the clandestine sale of Iranian UAVs to support Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine. The main front company identified in this illicit trade is Sahara Thunder, which oversees Iran’s commercial activities related to these efforts.
Among the Indian companies sanctioned for supporting Sahara Thunder are Zen Shipping, Port India Private Limited, and Sea Art Ship Management (OPC) Private Limited. These companies have been involved in time-charter contracts and providing ship management services for vessels engaged in the transportation of Iranian commodities.
The Treasury also highlighted the involvement of other entities, including Iran-based Arsang Safe Trading Co., Asia Marine Crown Agency, and UAE-based Safe Seas Ship Management FZE and Trans Gulf Agency LLC, in supporting Sahara Thunder’s operations.
Brian E. Nelson, the Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, condemned Iran’s Ministry of Defence for destabilizing the region through its support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine and its proliferation of UAVs and military hardware to terrorist proxies. He emphasized the United States’ commitment, along with its British and Canadian partners, to combatting activities that finance Iran’s destabilizing actions.
Sources By Agencies
