The U.S. Arrests a Dual National Citizen on Charges of Illegal Technology Exports to Iran

The U.S. Department of Justice has announced the arrest of a dual national Iranian citizen for allegedly exporting U.S. technology to Iran illegally. The U.S. Attorney's Office identified the individual as "Gholamreza Goudarzi" or "Ron Goudarzi," a resident of Porter, Texas, who was arrested on September 1 at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. This 76-year-old man is accused of smuggling parts and components used in the production of unmanned aerial vehicles as well as manned aircraft from the U.S. to Iran. According to the statement from the U.S. Department of Justice, Mr. Goudarzi is currently in custody until September 15, when he will appear in court to address the reasons for his arrest. Robert Wells, the Executive Assistant Director of the FBI's National Security Branch, stated, "Illegal trafficking of sensitive U.S. technologies to a foreign country jeopardizes national security and undermines the integrity of trade laws." He further emphasized that "the United States will not tolerate illegal trafficking of advanced technology to its adversaries, and the FBI, along with its partners, will work to hold accountable those who violate the laws of this country." Court documents reveal that Gholamreza Goudarzi illegally exported aircraft-related parts, in addition to oil and drilling components, to Iran from December 1, 2020, to July 5. He reportedly made multiple trips to Iran, often conducting these exports through the United Arab Emirates, and had also transported components in his luggage on several occasions. The Department of Justice complaint states that security personnel inspected Goudarzi's luggage multiple times and found aircraft parts concealed within his clothing. Some items had features consistent with drone production parts, as well as components applicable to electric motors and generators. According to this complaint, Gholamreza Goudarzi lacked the necessary permits to export such items to sanctioned countries, including Iran. If Mr. Goudarzi is found guilty in this case, he could face a maximum of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Previously, on August 15, the U.S. Department of Justice had accused Jeffrey Chance Nader, a 68-year-old Iranian-American citizen, of attempting to illegally send American aircraft parts to Iran.