The U.S. Department of State has made two significant findings with sanctions implications, aiming to increase economic pressure on the Iranian regime over its nuclear, military, and ballistic missile programs. The announcements were made pursuant to Section 1245 of the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act (IFCA) of 2012.
In consultation with the Department of the Treasury, the U.S. has identified 10 strategic materials being used in connection with Iran's nuclear, military, or ballistic missile programs. These materials include austenitic nickel-chromium alloy, magnesium ingots, sodium perchlorate, and tungsten copper, among others. The list also includes aluminum sheets and tubes, as well as specific types of EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) tools.
Any person selling, supplying, or transferring these materials to or from Iran will now face mandatory sanctions, regardless of end-use or end-user. This move aims to restrict the Iranian regime's access to critical components essential for its nuclear and military programs.
Furthermore, the U.S. has determined that Iran's construction sector is controlled directly or indirectly by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). As a result, any person knowingly selling, supplying, or transferring raw and semi-finished metals, graphite, coal, and software for integrating industrial purposes to or from Iran will also be subject to mandatory sanctions if those materials are intended for use in connection with the Iranian construction sector.
The United States continues to impose maximum economic pressure on the Iranian regime, seeking to end its nuclear threat, curtail its ballistic missile program, and stop its support for terrorist groups. The latest sanctions aim to further restrict Iran's ability to pursue these goals, while also underscoring America's commitment to countering Iran's destabilizing activities.
The U.S. Department of State made these announcements in coordination with the Department of the Treasury as part of a broader effort to enforce economic and security measures targeting the Iranian regime.