The United States announced Friday to impose sanctions on British, Armenian firms for unauthorized re-exports of aircraft to Iran. ( Xinhua )
The companies that are under U.S. sanctions are Britain-based Balli Group PLC and related companies, Armenia-based Blue Airways, as well as Iran-based Mahan Airways.
The British and Armenian companies "knowingly" re-exported three U.S. aircraft to Iran in violation of the U.S. Export Administration Regulations and are preparing to re-export three additional U.S. aircraft to Iran, according to U.S. officials.
The United States has imposed on sanctions on Iran for allegedly trying to develop nuclear weapons under the cover of civilian nuclear programs. Iran has denied the charges.