US hits Iran with fresh sanctions over missile program amid nuclear talks

The United States has slapped new sanctions on a network of individuals and entities in Iran, accusing them of facilitating the transfer of ballistic missile propellant materials to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), even as high-stakes nuclear talks continue behind closed doors.

The U.S. Treasury Department targeted six companies and six individuals for facilitating the transfer of chemicals used in the production of solid-fuel rocket motors.

Newsweek has reached out to the U.S. State Department and Iran’s Foreign Ministry for comment.

Why It Matters

This latest round of sanctions signals that President Donald Trump is not backing down on his “maximum pressure” campaign, despite the ongoing diplomatic efforts with Iran. By targeting entities that aid Iran’s missile development, the U.S. underscores that any future deal must address more than just nuclear concerns.

The sanctions are the eighth such action since February 4, when Trump signed a memorandum initiating a comprehensive strategy against Iran. These measures demonstrate the administration’s resolve to continue economic and political pressure while seeking to limit Iran’s military capabilities.

What to Know

The Treasury sanctioned a network that allegedly facilitated the procurement of sodium perchlorate and dioctyl sebacate—chemicals used in the production of ammonium perchlorate, a key component of solid propellants for ballistic missiles. These materials were reportedly sourced from China and supplied to Iran’s IRGC.

Ammonium perchlorate is regulated under the Missile Technology Control Regime, an international agreement designed to prevent the spread of missile technology.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Tuesday: “Iran’s aggressive development of missiles and other weapons capabilities imperils the safety of the United States and our partners,” emphasizing the urgent need to curb Tehran’s military advancements.

Nuclear Talks Continue

While sanctions continue, U.S. and Iranian officials have engaged in three rounds of talks since early April. These discussions, held in Muscat and Rome, have been described as positive but have yet to yield substantial breakthroughs. A fourth round of talks is expected soon.

Port Explosion Draws Speculation

The fresh sanctions follow a deadly explosion in the southern Iranian city of Bandar Abbas, where the death toll has risen to at least 70. Iran’s interior minister has said negligence was a factor in the massive explosion and fire at Shahid Rajaee, the country’s largest container port.

Media reports in the U.S. and Europe speculated that sodium perchlorate stored at the site may have contributed to the blast. Iran’s Defense Ministry denied the claims, insisting no sensitive materials were stored there.

What People Are Saying

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said: “Iran’s aggressive development of missiles and other weapons capabilities imperils the safety of the United States and our partners. To achieve peace through strength, Treasury will continue to take all available measures to deprive Iran’s access to resources necessary to advance its missile program.”

Iran Defence Ministry spokesman stated: “There were and are no import or export of fuel shipments or cargo for military use in the vicinity of the incident.”

What Happens Next

The upcoming fourth round of talks set for Saturday will be crucial as both sides continue to navigate their differences. With ongoing sanctions and the threat of further action, the U.S.-Iran discussions are expected to focus on finding a resolution that includes both nuclear and missile-related issues.