UN Imposes New Sanctions on Iran’s Nuclear Program
The United Nations has escalated its efforts against Iran’s nuclear program with a new set of sanctions announced on Wednesday. This follows earlier measures instituted by the UN last week.
The latest sanctions target five individuals and technology firms linked to Iran’s Defense Innovation Research Institute, which plays a critical role in the country’s nuclear agenda. Despite facing US military actions at key nuclear sites like Ford, Natanz, and Esfahan, Iran persists in its pursuit of nuclear capabilities.
According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, “The US is implementing snapback sanctions against the Iranian regime. The new sanctions and export controls target 44 entities associated with Iran’s nuclear, missile, and military initiatives.” He emphasized the administration’s stance, likening it to how the former President Donald Trump approached Iran’s nuclear ambitions, stating that it aims to prevent the country from developing nuclear weapons.
Among those sanctioned is Reza Mozaffarinia, the current director of the Defense Innovation Research Institute. He is identified as a key figure in efforts to obtain dual-use weapons technology and enhance nuclear capabilities. Notably, Mozaffarinia had previously been sanctioned by the Treasury Department during Barack Obama’s presidency. The sanctions also encompass various nuclear scientists involved in distinct roles within Iran’s programs.
Only one company is named in these sanctions: Andisheh Damavand International Technologies. Accusations suggest that this firm has helped Iranian nuclear scientists secure materials from Russia for their nuclear projects. The CEO, Ali Kalband, is noted for acquiring foreign materials intended for nuclear devices.
In response, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei asserted that Western actions have not impeded Iran’s ambitions, claiming that the country has achieved “high levels of uranium enrichment.”
The UN had previously enforced measures on September 27 due to what it described as Iran’s significant violations concerning the commitment not to enrich weapon-grade uranium.
The State Department did not provide a comment when asked for details by the Daily Caller News Foundation.
