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US sanctions Chinese entities over alleged Iran drone links
By Al Mayadeen English, Today 07:45

The US Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong entities for aiding Iran in obtaining materials used in the production of drones.

The United States announced new sanctions on 10 individuals and companies, including entities based in China and Hong Kong, for helping Iran secure materials and components used in the production of Shahed drones.

According to the US Treasury Department, the sanctions target so-called networks allegedly involved in supplying the Iranian armed forces with weapons-related materials and technology linked to drone manufacturing.

US Treasury targets Iran-linked procurement networks
In a statement released on Friday, the Treasury Department said the sanctions focus on individuals and firms facilitating the transfer of raw materials and equipment used in Iran’s military drone industry.

Washington claims the targeted entities played a role in supporting the production of Shahed drones, which have become a central component of Iran’s ability to respond to US aggression via aerial capabilities.

The measures come amid broader US efforts to increase pressure on Tehran through economic restrictions and sanctions targeting military procurement channels.

Timing coincides with Trump's planned China visit
The sanctions were announced days before US President Donald Trump is expected to travel to China for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

On April 25, Washington imposed sanctions on an independent Chinese oil refinery for purchasing billions of dollars' worth of Iranian oil.

In response, China reportedly instructed refineries not to comply with US sanctions, citing a 2021 law designed to shield Chinese entities from foreign legal measures and restrictions.
https://english.almayadeen.net/news/politics/us-sanctions-chinese-entities-over-alleged-iran-drone-links