Washington, 26 Apr (HS): The United States of America slapped sanctions on several companies, individuals, and vessels including three Indians. The sanctions were imposed allegedly for facilitating illicit trade and UAV transfers on behalf of the Iranian military.

The US Treasury Department said that these companies, vessels, and individuals played a role in facilitating the sale of Iranian aerial vehicles to Russia during the Russia-Ukraine war.

The companies include Sahara Thunder as a major company in supporting Iran’s commercial activities. Three Indian companies supporting Sahara Thunder are Zen Shipping, Port India Private Limited and Sea Art Ship Management (OPC) Private Limited.

Iranian military relies on Sahara Thunder for its vast shipping network.

Treasury Department also said that Iran-based Asia Marine Crown Agency served as the port agent in Bandar Abbas supporting several Sahara Thunder shipments.

India-based Sea Art Ship Management and UAE-based Trans Gulf Agency LLC have worked together in ship management to support Sahara Thunder. The UAE and Iran-based Coral Trading EST is also involved in purchasing Iranian goods from Sahara Thunder.

Hindusthan Samachar/ Ajay Mardikar/Manoj