Exclusive | US: We are examining the impact of sanctions on Iran's drone exports to Russia

The Director of Political-Military Affairs at the US State Department stated that the United States is examining the effects of recent sanctions against Chinese networks that have supported the Islamic Republic's drone program. Jessica Lewis made this remark in response to a reporter from the Persian section of Voice of America regarding the potential impact of these sanctions on the shipment of Iranian drones to Russia on Wednesday, July 7. The US imposed sanctions in March and April of this year against networks in China that supply parts needed for Iranian drones. Additionally, in June of this year, the US imposed further sanctions against companies in China for allegedly supplying components needed for missile production in Iran and other military items. The Islamic Republic has assisted Moscow by exporting drones to Russia, including the Shahed-136 and Shahed-131 suicide drones, which target civilian and military facilities in Ukraine, exerting more pressure on Ukraine's air defense. Ms. Lewis, speaking at a session titled 'Creating Deterrence: Security Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region and Beyond' hosted by the Foundation for Defense of Democracies in Washington, said, 'The goal of the sanctions against Chinese networks is to ensure that the US government is taking deterrent actions regarding any ongoing transfer of technology and components of Iranian drones to Russia.' This senior US State Department official told Voice of America, 'Teams are working hard to analyze the effects of these sanctions and are examining whether the US needs to take further actions.' She also mentioned the US's interest in expanding the 'Abraham Accords' aimed at normalizing relations between Arab countries and Israel and creating a defense architecture among US allies in the Middle East. The US recently conducted a large joint exercise with Israel. Jessica Lewis pointed out that the US ranks first in global arms exports, adding that American weapons have a long lifespan due to their quality. She stated that the US conducts arms sales with certain conditions, essentially establishing long-term relationships with countries importing American weapons, emphasizing that Washington's military support for its allies benefits US interests. The Wall Street Journal: Chinese components aid in the rapid construction and shipment of Iranian drones to Russia. The US has accused a Chinese citizen of conspiracy to 'send weapons materials' to Iran. European efforts to impose new sanctions against Russia are also targeting Iranian and Chinese companies. Analytical report: 'Energy Transition' and Iran's future position in the global energy arena.