The U.S. Treasury has imposed fresh sanctions against Iranian 17 entities and 14 individuals in connection with an Iranian defense entity linked to Iran’s previous nuclear weapons effort.

The statement issued by the Treasury says  entities and individuals are sanctioned in connection with Iran’s Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND) has provided support to designated Iranian defense entities and whose key personnel played a central role in the Iranian regime’s past nuclear weapons effort.  This action targets current SPND subordinate groups, supporters, front companies, and associated officials.

Thus, the number of sanctioned Iranian organizations and individuals exceeded 960.

Last year President Donald Trump announced U.S. withdrawal from the Iranian nuclear deal and return to the policy of sanctions. In early October the UN International Court upheld Tehran’s lawsuit and ruled that anti-Iranian sanctions have to be weakened. The United States, however, ignored the UN decision.