Tue Dec 30 17:43:01 UTC 2025: Summary:

The United States has escalated tensions with Iran and Venezuela, accusing them of “reckless proliferation of deadly weapons.” The US Treasury Department issued sanctions against a Venezuelan company (EANSA) and its chairman, alleging they are involved in assembling Iranian-designed drones. These actions are part of a broader strategy to isolate Iran’s military-industrial complex and counter what the US perceives as aggressive behavior from both Tehran and Caracas, including alleged drug trafficking. The US has also threatened further action against Iran if it rebuilds its missile or nuclear capabilities and has carried out strikes against alleged drug-running vessels in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. Both Iran and Venezuela have condemned the US actions.

News Article:

US Accuses Iran and Venezuela of “Reckless Weapons Proliferation” as Tensions Rise

Washington, D.C. – The United States has leveled accusations against Iran and Venezuela, claiming the two nations are engaged in the “reckless proliferation of deadly weapons,” further inflaming already strained relations. The US Treasury Department announced sanctions against Empresa Aeronautica Nacional SA (EANSA), a Venezuelan company, alleging it facilitates the assembly of Iranian-designed drones.

According to the Treasury Department, EANSA and its chairman, Jose Jesus Urdaneta Gonzalez, are actively collaborating with the Iranian military to produce unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in Venezuela. “Treasury is holding Iran and Venezuela accountable for their aggressive and reckless proliferation of deadly weapons around the world,” stated Treasury official John Hurley.

The sanctions freeze any US-held assets of the targeted entities and prohibit American citizens from engaging in financial transactions with them. The US has asserted that the drone cooperation between Iran and Venezuela dates back to 2006.

The move comes amid heightened tensions with both countries. President Trump recently threatened further strikes against Iran should it resume its missile or nuclear programs. The Trump administration has also taken a confrontational stance towards Venezuela, claiming to have “hit” a dock used for loading drug boats, and accusing President Maduro of leading a drug trafficking organization.

Iran has responded to Trump’s threats with a warning of a “harsh and regrettable” response to any aggression. Venezuela has denounced US actions as “piracy” and accused the US of attempting to overthrow Maduro’s government. The US has also been carrying out strikes against what it says are drug-running vessels in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean.

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