U.S. adds Iranians, firms to blacklist

WASHINGTON, July 8 (UPI) -- The United States blacklisted six Iranian individuals and five firms Tuesday for their alleged involvement in the country's nuclear efforts, officials said.

U.S. State and Treasury Department officials said the financial sanctions were imposed because of their alleged ties to the Middle Eastern nation's nuclear and missile programs, the Voice of America reported.

The individuals named by U.S. officials included Mohsen Fakhrizadeh-Mahadbadi, a nuclear scientist who is a senior Iranian Defense Ministry official, the VOA reported. The list also includes Yahya Rahim Safavi, a former Revolutionary Guard commander.

Among the companies added to the sanctions list was Tamas, a Tehran firm involved in uranium mining and refining.

Being on the list means they are off-limits for U.S. business dealings and that any assets they have in U.S. banks are frozen.

Acting State Department spokesman Gonzalo Gallegos said it is "a known fact" the Iranian government hides behind companies and individuals as it tries to develop its nuclear capabilities.

"And as long as they continue to do this, we are going to make this evident, and apprise our friends, allies and partners around the world of individuals who are participating in this, entities who are participating in this, so that individuals and businesses can be forewarned," he said.

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