US Targets Covert Iranian Procurement Network in New Sanctions Push
Washington-The United States imposed sanctions on individuals linked to an alleged Iranian procurement network accused of fraudulently acquiring sensitive American military-related technology, intensifying pressure on Tehran as negotiations continue over a possible agreement to end the ongoing conflict between the two countries.
The U.S. State Department said on Friday it was taking action to dismantle what it described as a sophisticated network that used deception and intermediary companies to obtain advanced equipment for Iran’s defense sector in violation of American sanctions.
According to State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott, the network allegedly defrauded dozens of U.S. technology firms and secured millions of dollars’ worth of equipment, including spectrum analyzers and security detection devices with potential military applications.
U.S. officials said the operation relied on fraudulent websites designed to resemble legitimate American companies. The network allegedly used intermediaries in Dubai to receive shipments before transferring the equipment to Iran, circumventing existing sanctions restrictions.
The State Department identified Ali Majd Sepehr as the individual leading the network. Officials did not disclose the names of the affected American companies or provide details on the quantity of technology allegedly transferred.
The sanctions announcement comes as Washington increases efforts to disrupt financial and logistical channels linked to Iran’s military establishment. On Thursday, the State Department offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to the disruption of financial mechanisms associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its affiliated branches.
The move also coincides with high-stakes diplomatic discussions between Washington and Tehran aimed at ending the conflict that began earlier this year. The White House said on Friday that President Donald Trump would approve an agreement only if it fully satisfies U.S. requirements, underscoring uncertainty surrounding the negotiations.
The latest sanctions signal that the United States intends to maintain economic and legal pressure on Iran’s defense procurement networks even as diplomatic efforts continue.
