US Imposes Sanctions on Iran and Venezuela Over Drone and Missile Trade

New US Sanctions Imposed

• 🎯 The US Department of State has announced new sanctions targeting 10 entities and individuals based in Iran and Venezuela.
• ⚠️ These sanctions are in response to alleged contributions to Iran's drone trade and ballistic missile program, which the US views as a threat to itself and its allies.

Alleged CIA Drone Strike in Venezuela

• ⚡ A CIA drone strike reportedly targeted a dock on the coast of Venezuela, believed to be used by drug smugglers tied to the violent gang Daragua.
• 💥 This marks a significant US operation inside Venezuela, with officials in Caracas and the CIA not commenting on the matter.
• 🚢 The strike reportedly hit boats and the dock area where drugs were loaded, described as a major explosion.

Operation Southern Spear and Drug Interdiction

• 🚢 In a separate incident, US Southern Command conducted an attack on a suspected narcotics vessel in the Eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of two individuals.
• 📈 Since September, over 100 people have been killed in attacks on alleged drug boats as part of Operation Southern Spear, with a stated goal of stopping 97% of drugs coming by sea.
• 🚫 President Trump has indicated these US strikes will continue until drug running ceases.

Venezuelan Regime's Response

• 🗣️ The Maduro regime in Venezuela has criticized US actions, including boat strikes and oil tanker blockades, calling them a smokescreen for regime change.