US Sanctions India, China, Russia Firms Over Iran IRGC Ties
By Business Desk
The US imposes sanctions on six entities in India, China, and Russia for facilitating Iran’s IRGC via Mahan Air’s operations.
The United States has announced new sanctions targeting six entities and individuals across China, India, Russia, and Iran. These measures aim to disrupt support networks for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The sanctions specifically target companies operating as general sales agents for Mahan Air. The US identifies Mahan Air as an Iranian airline instrumental in transporting weapons, military personnel, and equipment for the IRGC.
Targeting Mahan Air’s Global Network
Several entities have been identified for their roles in supporting Mahan Air’s operations. These companies facilitate various aspects of the airline’s activities, which the US links to the IRGC.
- China-based Shanghai Wings International Logistics Co. and its managing director, Tang Xin, were sanctioned.
- Tang Xin also holds an executive position and 50% ownership in Shanghai Elite International Travel Co., also sanctioned.
- Both Chinese companies are accused of acting as general sales agents for Mahan Air and facilitating electronics transport from China to Iran.
- India-based Skiez Travels and Logistics Private Limited was sanctioned for its role as a general sales agent for Mahan Air in India.
- Russia-based Air Cargo Pro Limited also faced sanctions for its general sales agent activities for Mahan Air in Russia.
IRGC Front Company Sanctioned
Beyond Mahan Air’s support network, the sanctions also extended to an IRGC-affiliated front company. This entity is accused of actively supporting Iranian military targeting efforts.
- DadeNegar Startup Studio, an IRGC-affiliated company, was sanctioned.
- It is accused of soliciting information on the locations of American and Israeli equipment in the Middle East.
US Treasury’s Stance and International Warning
The US Treasury Department reaffirmed that Mahan Air, despite presenting itself as a civilian carrier, plays a critical role in enabling the IRGC. The department issued a clear warning regarding continued engagement with sanctioned Iranian entities.
The United States urged the international community, including businesses and individuals, to acknowledge the significant risks associated with continued engagement. The US government affirmed its commitment to exposing and disrupting entities that provide the IRGC with resources and intelligence used to threaten American personnel, allies, and regional stability.