US sanctions Iran over illicit tech network; PGSA blasts Hormuz-related move

The United States announced new sanctions targeting an Iran-based network led by Ali Majd Sepehr that impersonated U.S. firms to obtain technology for Iran's military, with rewards up to $15 million for information disrupting IRGC financing. The U.S. Treasury also updated Iran-related payments guidance to safeguard passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) was designated under counterterrorism authorities for supporting the IRGC, and PGSA officials condemned the sanctions on X/Twitter, calling them a sign of “positive performance” by a leader who allegedly prides himself on piracy, while vowing sanctions will not allow Hormuz to be controlled by force.