US sanctions Mahan Air’s China network over alleged support for Iran’s IRGC

The United States has targeted two China-based companies and a Chinese executive with sanctions for their alleged support of Mahan Air, which the U.S. Treasury Department identified as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' "airline of choice" for transporting weapons, military personnel, and equipment. This move marks the second consecutive day Washington has penalized mainland China or Hong Kong-linked businesses accused of aiding Tehran, widening its pressure campaign beyond Iranian oil shipments to encompass aviation, travel, and cargo services. Shanghai Wings International Logistics Co. allegedly acted as a general sales agent for Mahan Air, coordinating the transport of electronics from China to Iran. The Treasury Department also sanctioned the company's managing director, Tang Xin, accusing him of arranging travel for the Iranian carrier. Tang is reportedly the executive director and 50 percent owner of Shanghai Elite International Travel Co., which represents Mahan Air in China. The sanctions freeze any U.S. assets held by the designated parties and generally prohibit Americans from conducting business with them. Foreign financial institutions found to knowingly facilitate significant transactions for these parties could also face secondary sanctions.