US Sanctions 14 Entities Linked to Iran Arms

The United States has imposed new sanctions on 14 individuals and companies accused of helping Iran acquire weapons, as Washington steps up pressure on Tehran’s military networks.

The US Treasury said the measures target entities involved in supporting Iran’s efforts to rebuild its ballistic missile arsenal following recent US-Israeli strikes.

In a statement, the US Department of the Treasury indicated that Washington will continue efforts to limit Iran’s missile capabilities and disrupt its production capacity.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent criticized Iran’s actions, accusing it of destabilizing global energy markets and targeting civilians with missiles and drones. He added that the US will continue to track financial networks and apply economic pressure on Iran and those supporting its activities.

The sanctions form part of a broader strategy under a presidential national security directive aimed at curbing Iran’s ballistic missile program, restricting access to financial resources, and preventing the development of both conventional and unconventional military capabilities.

Officials described the move as the fifth round of non-proliferation-related measures tied to the reimposition of international sanctions on Iran in September 2025, following what Washington described as significant non-compliance with nuclear commitments.

The decision comes amid coordinated Western action. The European Union recently signaled plans to expand its sanctions framework to include individuals linked to the disruption of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

The EU has already designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation and imposed sanctions on multiple individuals and entities over alleged human rights violations.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump indicated that a second round of US-Iran talks could take place as early as Friday, suggesting a possible diplomatic opening despite ongoing tensions.

He also confirmed the extension of a temporary ceasefire with Iran while maintaining a naval blockade on its ports, pending a unified proposal from Iranian leadership.

Trump further claimed that Iran is facing severe financial strain, arguing that economic pressure is forcing Tehran to seek the reopening of key trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.