US Sanctions Six Mahan Air Backers, Naming India's Skiez Travels

The other sanctioned GSAs include Shanghai Wings International Logistics Co, which the Treasury said coordinated transport of electronics from China to Iran; Russia-based Air Cargo Pro Limited; and Shanghai Elite International Travel Co. Tang Xin, managing director of Shanghai Wings and executive director and 50% owner of Shanghai Elite, was also designated.

Separately, the Treasury designated DadeNegar Startup Studio as a front company tied to the IRGC. The Treasury said DadeNegar solicited locations of American and Israeli equipment to support Iranian military targeting and, in coordination with the IRGC, received strike requests for US targets in the Middle East.

The sanctions freeze any US-held assets of the designated entities and prohibit American individuals and companies from doing business with them. The action follows a pattern of US pressure on companies and individuals that handle ticketing, logistics, or cargo for Mahan Air, which has been under US sanctions since 2011.

Skiez Travels is the first India-based entity caught in this specific sanctions net. The Treasury did not specify whether the firm faces additional penalties under Indian law.