US sanctions 2 leaders of Iran nuclear enrichment programme

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo said Wednesday (local time) that the United States has sanctioned two leaders of Iran's nuclear enrichment programme.

"I am also announcing the designation of Majid Agha'i and Amjad Sazgar pursuant to E.O. (Executive Order) 13382 for engaging or attempting to engage in activities that have materially contributed to, or pose a risk of materially contributing to, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction," Pompeo said in a release.

He stated that Sazgar is managing director of Iran's Atomic Energy Orgsation responsible for the industrial-scale production of urum enrichment gas centrifuge machines.

"In 2019, Sazgar managed and supervised the installation of centrifuges at Iran's Fordow Fuel Enrichment plant. Through these activities, Sazgar has contributed to Iran's continued provocative and destabilizing expansion of its nuclear capabilities," the Secretary of State added.

Pompeo further said that "Agha'i has also been centrally involved in Iran's urum enrichment centrifuge operations and is a manager in the Atomic Energy Orgsation of Iran subsidiary responsible for research and development of advanced centrifuges." (Sputnik/)

( With inputs from ANI )