Washington - The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on more than 25 people and companies it accused of violating sanctions against Iran, including shipping firms, airlines, and six Iranian banks.
The US move comes as the United States is one of six global powers working with Iran to strike a comprehensive agreement, by a November 24 deadline, under which Iran would curb its nuclear activities in exchange for an easing of economic sanctions that have crippled its economy.
The US Treasury Department said it was targeting the people and firms for a range of violations, including helping Iran's missile and nuclear programs, evading prior sanctions, or supporting terrorism.
“As we fulfill our commitment to provide targeted sanctions relief, we remain committed to enforcing existing sanctions against Iran,” David Cohen, Treasury's under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, said in a statement. - Reuters