US State Dept. sanctions Iranian military activities, fuel export in Operation Economic Outcast

The US State Department announced new sanctions targeting Iranian military activities, cyber threats, and illicit oil trade as part of "Operation Economic Outcast." These measures, detailed by Spokesperson Tommy Pigott, aim to disrupt Iran's destabilizing actions. The sanctions specifically target two Iran-based groups, DadeNegar Startup Studio and the IRGC Cyber-Electronic Command, for providing intelligence and imagery used in attacks against US forces and allies in the Middle East. Additionally, seven Iranian individuals, including military commanders and officials, were sanctioned for their roles in directing conventional weapons use and advancing Iran's missile and drone programs. The US also sanctioned companies involved in the illicit trade of Iranian petroleum and petrochemical products, which generate revenue for the regime. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated, "We are no longer managing the Iranian threat. We are ending it."