US slaps new sanctions on Iran

PTI, Washington :
US Friday slapped fresh sanctions on several companies and individuals allegedly providing assistance to Iran’s controversial nuclear programme, support for terrorism or aiding its evasion of global sanctions.
“These measures and continue to enforce pre-existing sanctions on Iran, the United States remains committed to working with our P5+1 partners toward a long-term, comprehensive solution that provides confidence that Iran’s nuclear program is exclusively peaceful,” National Security Council Spokesperson Caitlin Hayden said.
Our actions today and since the start of the talks are consistent with our commitments under the Joint Plan of Action (JPOA), which provided limited relief of certain sanctions in exchange for Iranians steps that halted its nuclear program and rolled it back in key respects, she said.
The State Department imposed sanctions on four companies for engaging in activities that have materially contributed to, or posed a risk of materially contributing to, the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) or their means of delivery.
These companies are Organisation of Defensive Innovation and Research, Nuclear Science and Technology Research Institute, Jahan Tech Rooyan Pars and Mandegar Baspar Kimiya Company.
Simultaneously, the Treasury Department blacklisted as many as 25 individuals and companies including Nefertiti Shipping, Sazeh Morakab, Ali Gholami.
“Treasury’s action against over 25 entities and individuals – who are involved in expanding Iran’s proliferation program, supporting terrorism in the region, and helping Iran evade US and international sanctions – reflects our continuing determination to take action against anyone, anywhere, who violates our sanctions,” Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence David S Cohen said.
Sanctions have been imposed on five other banks Khavarmianeh Bank, Ghavamin Bank, Gharzolhasaneh Resalat Bank, Kish International Bank, and Kafolatbank.
As a result of today’s action, US citizens are now barred from trading with these parties and all property and interests in property under US jurisdiction in which they have an interest in are blocked.
The State Department said these actions underscore US resolve to enforce sanctions as the P5+1 and Iran work toward a comprehensive solution to address the international community’s concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme.
P5+1 comprises of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) United States, Russia, China, United Kingdom, France, plus Germany.
As part of the JPOA, which was extended in July, the P5+1 committed to providing Iran with limited, temporary, and targeted sanctions relief in return for important steps the Islamic state took to constrain its nuclear programme.