US sanctions entities supporting Iran's nuclear program ahead of Oman talks

'The Iranian regime's reckless pursuit of nuclear weapons remains a grave threat to the United States,' says Treasury chief

By Yasin Gungor

ISTANBUL (AA) - The US Treasury Department imposed sanctions Wednesday on five entities and an individual linked to Iran's nuclear program, days before talks on Saturday are set to take place in Oman.

The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control targeted organizations providing support to key entities overseeing Iran's nuclear activities, including the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran and Iran Centrifuge Technology Company.

"The Iranian regime's reckless pursuit of nuclear weapons remains a grave threat to the United States and a menace to regional stability and global security," said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

The sanctions target Atbin Ista Technical and Engineering Company, which helps acquire components from foreign suppliers, and managing director Majid Mosallat.

Also designated were the Pegah Aluminum Arak Company, which manufactures aluminum products, the Thorium Power Company, Pars Reactors Construction and Development Company, and Azarab Industries.

Assets belonging to those entities in the US or controlled by US persons are now blocked under new sanctions.

The sanctions come ahead of scheduled talks on April 12 between the US and Iran in Oman, initiated after President Donald Trump sent a letter to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei last month.

While Trump described the discussions as "direct" talks, Iranian officials said it would be "indirect" with Oman serving as a mediator.

Trump warned earlier this week that Iran faces "great danger" if negotiations fail, implying possible military action, while maintaining that discussions are in Tehran's "best interests."

Steve Witkoff, Trump's special envoy, is expected to lead the US delegation in the talks, according to media reports.

The US government maintains sanctions in support of its policy to deny Iran access to nuclear weapons, while Iranian officials have consistently claimed Tehran’s nuclear program serves only civilian purposes.

Kaynak:

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