DOJ charges two men for selling microelectronics to IRGC, Iran’s terror group
DOJ Indicts Two Men for Procuring Microelectronics for IRGC
The Department of Justice has indicted two men for allegedly procuring microelectronics for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that could be used in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attacks.
Iranian national Hossein Hatefi Ardakani and co-defendant Gary Lam, identified as Lin Jinghe, have been charged with the crime. Lam reportedly worked for a Chinese company. The microelectronics were intended for use by the IRGC Aerospace Force Self Sufficiency Jihad Organization’s (ASF SSJO) one-way attack UAV program, as stated by the DOJ.
The microelectronics included high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs), monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) power amplifiers, and analog-to-digital converters.
Justice Department’s Commitment to National Security
Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division emphasized the department’s commitment to keeping military-grade equipment out of the hands of the Iranian regime. He stated, “We will aggressively investigate, disrupt, and hold accountable criminal networks that supply sensitive technology to hostile and repressive governments in contravention of U.S. sanctions.”
The Deadly and Repressive IRGC
The IRGC, serving as the military right arm of the despotic Iranian theocratic government, has been labeled a foreign terrorist organization (FTO) by the U.S. State Department in 2019. Established in May 1979 after the Islamic Revolution, the IRGC has brutally targeted Iran’s own citizens during protests against the government. The U.S. designating the IRGC as a terrorist group in 2019 marked the first time the military branch of a foreign country received such a designation.
The Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act states, “The IRGC, not just the IRGC-QF [the Qods Force, the Guard’s extraterritorial branch], is responsible for implementing Iran’s international program of destabilizing activities, support for acts of international terrorism, and ballistic missile program.”
Accountability for Procuring Dual-Use Microelectronics
Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement Matthew S. Axelrod of the Department of Commerce emphasized that U.S. technology has no place in Iranian UAVs. He added, “As these allegations demonstrate, those who procure dual-use microelectronics for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps will be held accountable.”
CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILYWIRE+ APP
Disruption of Criminal Networks
Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New England explained that Ardakani and his co-conspirators created a sophisticated web of front companies to acquire U.S. and foreign technology for deadly UAVs. The disruption of these criminal networks by Homeland Security Investigations ensures that hundreds of thousands of critical UAV components will never again be used for malign purposes.
Ardakani and Lam face charges of conspiracy to export U.S. goods to Iran and to defraud the United States, unlawfully exporting and attempting to export goods to Iran, and conspiracy to engage in international money laundering. These charges carry possible sentences of up to five and 20 years.
In what ways does the indictment of Ardakani and Lam demonstrate the United States’ commitment to enforcing sanctions against Iran
Government views the IRGC as a major threat to regional stability due to its support for terrorist organizations and its aggressive behavior in the Middle East.
The IRGC’s involvement in UAV attacks is a serious concern for national security. UAVs equipped with advanced microelectronics can be used to carry out sophisticated and deadly attacks, posing a significant threat to both military and civilian targets. By procuring these microelectronics for the IRGC, Ardakani and Lam are alleged to have enabled the IRGC to enhance their capabilities in conducting such attacks.
Partnership Between Iran and China
The involvement of Lam, identified as Lin Jinghe, who reportedly worked for a Chinese company, raises concerns about the partnership between Iran and China in procuring sensitive technology. China’s role in providing advanced technology to Iran has been a subject of concern for the United States and its allies. This indictment highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between countries in countering the illicit transfer of sensitive technology to rogue regimes.
Enforcement of U.S. Sanctions
The indictment of Ardakani and Lam also underscores the United States’ commitment to enforcing sanctions against Iran. The U.S. has imposed strict sanctions on Iran in an effort to curb its nuclear program, support for terrorism, and aggression in the region. By prosecuting individuals involved in procuring sensitive technology for the IRGC, the U.S. is sending a strong message that it will hold accountable those who seek to undermine these sanctions and endanger national security.
Conclusion
The indictment of Hossein Hatefi Ardakani and Gary Lam for procuring microelectronics for the IRGC highlights the ongoing threat posed by the IRGC and the importance of preventing the transfer of sensitive technology to hostile and repressive governments. It also emphasizes the need for continued international cooperation in countering these illicit activities and enforcing sanctions. By bringing these individuals to justice, the United States is working to safeguard national security and protect against the misuse of advanced technology by hostile actors.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Auto Amazon Links: Could not resolve the given unit type, . Please be sure to update the auto-insert definition if you have deleted the unit.