U.S. to Impose Sanctions Over Iran-Russia Ballistic Missile Transfers

The U.S. announced on Tuesday that it will impose sanctions on Iran and Russia for Tehran's delivery of ballistic missiles to Moscow. The sanctions will also affect Iran Air, restricting its flights to Europe. This decision follows remarks from U.S. officials about the potential use of these missiles in Ukraine.

The U.S. announced on Tuesday that it will impose sanctions on individuals and entities in Iran and Russia involved in Tehran's delivery of ballistic missiles to Moscow, according to the White House.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby stated that the new sanctions would also restrict Iran Air's commercial flights from Iran to Britain and continental Europe. Kirby's remarks closely followed comments made earlier in London by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who said that Russia has already received ballistic missiles from Iran and is likely to use them in Ukraine within weeks.

Kirby explained that these Iranian missiles, which have a maximum range of approximately 75 miles, could enable Russia to target areas beyond the front line while reserving more of its arsenal for long-range targets. He added that this cooperation could also pose a danger to the Middle East, as Iran may gain access to Russian technology, including on nuclear issues.

Kirby emphasized that the sanctions aim to show Iran the economic costs it would face and warned that the U.S. would introduce further measures if necessary.

(With inputs from agencies.)