BusinessMay 9, 2026

How U.S. Sanctions Target Networks That Supply Iran’s Missiles and Drones

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② Start Lesson

Key Vocabulary

sanction/ˈsæŋk.ʃən/

a penalty or restriction that a government places on a person or group

"The government put a sanction on the company."

Treasury/ˈtrɛʒ.ər.i/

the U.S. government department that manages money and enforces financial rules

"The Treasury announced new rules."

drone/droʊn/

an unmanned aircraft controlled remotely or by a computer

"A drone flew over the field."

Listening

How U.S. Sanctions Target Networks That Supply Iran’s Missiles and Drones

The U.S. Treasury Department has punished companies that help Iran make missiles and drones. The Treasury is the U.S. agency that manages money and enforces sanctions. In April and May 2026, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) named several firms, people, and ships.

Some targets were Chinese companies that sold raw materials used in Shahed drones. The Treasury also blacklisted ships and small oil refineries that move Iranian oil. The goal is to cut Iran’s access to parts and money for weapons. For example, OFAC named a Chinese company called Hitex for selling carbon fiber used in drones. UAV means unmanned aerial vehicle, and people often call them drones.

110 words

Quiz

1. Which U.S. agency punished companies?

2. What office named several firms, people, and ships?

3. What is one Chinese company named in the article?

Reading Practice

Read the article from the Listening section aloud. Your AI teacher will give you pronunciation feedback.

Discussion

Do you know anyone who has worked with international companies? What was that experience like?

Have you ever heard news about banks and money moving between countries? How did that make you feel?

What do you think when you hear the word "drone"? Have you seen one near you?