The Trump administration on Friday imposed sanctions on 13 people and a dozen companies in response to Iran’s recent ballistic missile test, increasing pressure on Tehran without directly undercutting a landmark nuclear deal with the country.
White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer told reporters, “we’ve taken these actions today after careful consideration and will continue to respond with appropriate action.”
Those targeted by the Treasury Department include various agents, companies and associates involved in procuring ballistic missile technology for Iran.
The action blacklists the Iranian, Lebanese, Emirati and Chinese individuals and firms from doing any business in the United States or with American citizens.
The sanctions are the first against Iran in Donald Trump’s new presidency, reflecting his desire to take a tougher stance toward Tehran.
Throughout his campaign, Trump accused the Obama administration of being weak on Iran and vowed to crack down if elected.
Iran has a formidable arsenal of thousands of short-range and medium-range ballistic missiles capable of reaching Israel and other US allies in the Middle East, as well as American bases.
