The United States Department of the Treasury has imposed new sanctions on six entities and individuals across India, China, Russia, and Iran for their alleged support of Mahan Air. Washington identifies the Iranian airline as a critical conduit for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), accusing it of transporting military personnel, weapons, and unmanned aerial vehicle systems. Among the sanctioned parties is the India-based firm Skiez Travels and Logistics Private Limited, which has served as a general sales agent for the airline since 2020.
General sales agents act as official representatives for airlines in countries where they lack a local office, managing ticket and cargo sales. By targeting these intermediaries, the U.S. aims to disrupt the logistical and financial networks that enable Mahan Air to operate globally. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that those providing commercial or logistical support to the IRGC or Mahan Air are helping to sustain a terrorist enterprise and will be cut off from the U.S. financial system.
The sanctions block all property and interests of the designated parties that are under U.S. jurisdiction. Furthermore, the measures generally prohibit U.S. persons or entities from engaging in transactions with these firms. This action is part of a broader U.S. strategy to increase economic pressure on the Iranian regime and the IRGC in response to regional security concerns, including attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
In addition to the Indian firm, the Treasury designated China-based Shanghai Wings International Logistics Co and Shanghai Elite International Travel Co, along with their managing director, Tang Xin. Russia-based Air Cargo Pro Limited was also included in the action. Separately, the U.S. designated DadeNegar Startup Studio, an Iranian entity described as an IRGC-affiliated front company allegedly involved in supporting military targeting. These sanctions represent a continued effort by Washington to isolate entities that facilitate the operations of groups it has designated as threats to national security.