U.S ,India

The US sanctions three Indian companies for aiding Iran in supplying UAVs to Russia, targeting Sahara Thunder's illicit trade network. This move aims to curb Iran's destabilizing activities and reinforces international efforts to uphold regional stability. 

The United States has imposed sanctions on several companies, individuals, and vessels, including three from India, for their roles in facilitating illicit trade and transfers of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on behalf of the Iranian military. The move targets entities aiding Iran's efforts to supply UAVs to Russia amidst its conflict in Ukraine.

The US Department of Treasury highlighted Sahara Thunder as a key front company overseeing Iran's commercial activities in support of these operations. Among the Indian companies facing sanctions are Zen Shipping, Port India Private Limited, and Sea Art Ship Management (OPC) Private Limited, accused of supporting Sahara Thunder.

Sahara Thunder, linked to Iran's Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL), operates through a vast shipping network, transporting Iranian commodities to various destinations including China, Russia, and Venezuela.

According to the Treasury, Zen Shipping and Port India Private Limited entered time-charter contracts with Sahara Thunder for the vessel CHEM, managed by UAE-based Safe Seas Ship Management FZE. The CHEM has been utilized for multiple shipments since 2022, with Iran-based Arsang Safe Trading Co. providing ship management services for Sahara Thunder-related operations.

Additionally, Iran-based Asia Marine Crown Agency has acted as the port agent in Bandar Abbas, Iran, supporting Sahara Thunder shipments. Sea Art Ship Management (OPC) Private Limited and UAE-based Trans Gulf Agency LLC collaborated to provide ship management services for Sahara Thunder, with UAE and Iran-based Coral Trading EST. purchasing Iranian commodities from the entity.

Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson emphasized Iran's destabilizing actions, including support for Russia's war in Ukraine, attacks on Israel, and proliferation of UAVs to terrorist groups. The US, alongside British and Canadian partners, vows to combat entities financing Iran's disruptive activities.

The sanctions underscore the global effort to curb Iran's involvement in illicit activities and uphold stability in the region. The US continues to employ all available means to counter actors enabling Iran's destabilizing endeavors, emphasizing cooperation with allies to address shared security concerns.