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New US Sanctions on Entities that Have Helped Iran’s Ballistic Missile Program | ASHARQ AL-AWSAT English Archive 2005 -2017
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A ballistic missile is launched and tested in an undisclosed location, Iran, on March 8, 2016. REUTERS


Washington- The United States has imposed sanctions on 30 foreign companies or individuals in 10 countries for transferring sensitive items to Iran for its missile program or for violating export controls on Iran, North Korea and Syria.

The State Department said on Friday that the sanctions exemplify the US government’s continued commitment to Nonproliferation and the promotion of global stability and security. They were imposed pursuant to the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act (INKSNA).

Eleven companies or individuals were sanctioned for technology transfers that could boost Tehran’s ballistic missile program, the Department said in a statement.

The eleven entities include Beijing Zhong Ke Electric Co. Ltd. (ZKEC) (China), Ningbo New Century Import and Export Company Limited (China), Shenzhen Yataida High-Tech Company Ltd (China), Sinotech (Dalian) Carbon and Graphite Corporation (SCGC) (China), Saeng Pil Trading Corporation (SPTC) (North Korea) and Mabrooka Trading (United Arab Emirates).

“Iran’s proliferation of missile technology significantly contributes to regional tensions. As an example, we have seen indications Iran is providing missile support to the Houthis in Yemen. This destabilizing activity only serves to escalate regional conflicts further and poses a significant threat to regional security,” the statement said.

“We will continue to take steps to address Iran’s missile development and production and sanction entities and individuals involved in supporting these programs under US law. The imposition of sanctions against these eleven foreign entities is a continuation of our commitment to hold Iran accountable for its actions,” it added.

An additional 19 foreign entities and individuals were sanctioned under INKSNA on March 21 for other violations, including transferring material that could contribute to the development of weapons of mass destruction or missile proliferation.

The following restrictions on the sanctioned individuals and entities have gone into effect:

1. No department or agency of the US Government may procure or contract for any goods, services, or technology from the designated entities, except to the extent the Secretary of State otherwise may determine;

2. The designated entities are ineligible for any assistance program of the US Government, except to the extent the Secretary of State otherwise may determine;

3. Government sales of any item on the US Munitions List to these entities are prohibited, and sales of any defense articles, defense services, or design and construction services controlled under the Arms Export Control Act are terminated.