WASHINGTON, 31 July 2021, (TON): The U.S. is reportedly planning to issue sanctions targeting Iran’s drone and guided missile programs, with officials citing potential threats to U.S. national security.

The Wall Street Journal reported that U.S. officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the planned actions are aimed at disrupting the development of Iran’s weapons program.

A senior U.S. official told media “it’s part of a comprehensive approach so we’re dealing with all aspects of the Iranian threat.”

US planning to target Iran drone, guided missile programs with sanctions: report Getty Images US planning to target Iran drone, guided missile programs with sanctions: report

While the U.S. has previously levied sanctions against some of Iran’s missile programs, the upcoming sanctions would specifically target groups that provide parts used to build drones and missiles and other weapons supply networks.

The officials said that the sanctions would be separate from the Biden administration’s ongoing efforts to pressure Iran to return to compliance with the 2015 nuclear agreement and to engage in talks on negotiating a new deal.

The Treasury Department, which oversees the implementation of U.S. sanctions, declined to comment when contacted by The Hill.

The Journal reported last week that the Biden administration was eyeing new sanctions on Iran’s oil sales to China if talks to revive the Iran nuclear deal fail.

According to U.S. officials “the potential oil sanctions would specifically target the shipping network that includes 1 million barrels of oil a day, a significant revenue source for Iran.”