US sanctions three Iran weapons-procurement networks

The United States on Wednesday imposed new sanctions on three procurement networks that are supporting Iran's ballistic missile, nuclear and defense programs, the Treasury Department said in a statement.

It said the networks - based in Iran, Turkey, Oman and Germany – had procured carbon fiber, epoxy resins and other missile-applicable goods. "Through complex covert procurement networks, Iran seeks to supply rogue actors around the world with weapons systems that fuel conflict and risk countless civilian lives," said Brian Nelson, under secretary of the Treasury for terrorism and financial intelligence.

Last month, the Treasury announced punitive measures

targeting Iran's ballistic missile and drone procurement programs as Washington looked to increase pressure on Tehran, whose proxies in Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and the Gaza Strip have attacked U.S. and Israeli targets.