The US government has announced an expansion of sanctions on two Iranian energy sectors in an effort to cut off revenue that is allegedly being used by Tehran to fund proxy groups and create instability in the region. This move comes in response to Tehran's recent missile attack on Israel, which has heightened tensions in the region.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the US is taking these steps to disrupt the flow of revenue that the Iranian regime uses to fund its nuclear program, missile development, support terrorist proxies, and perpetuate conflict in the Middle East. The US government had previously warned of consequences following Iran's attack on Israel earlier this month.
It is important to note that Hezbollah and Hamas, two militant groups funded by Iran, are currently engaged in conflicts with Israel in Lebanon and Gaza, respectively. These groups, along with others, operate in various countries in the region, including Iraq, Syria, and Yemen.
The US Treasury Department emphasized that the expanded sanctions are part of a broader effort to hold Iran accountable for its actions and to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region. The situation remains tense as Israel considers its response to the recent attacks.
