Italian Journalist’s Arrest and Iranian Technology Allegations: A Case of Connected Cases?

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The indictment also charges Abedini with providing material support to the IRGC, which was allegedly involved in a drone attack on a U.S. military base in Jordan. This attack resulted in the deaths of three American servicemembers and injuries to dozens more.

Collaboration with U.S.-Based Entities

Court documents reveal that Abedini and Mahdi Mohammad Sadeghi, a dual U.S.-Iranian national, conspired to circumvent U.S. export control laws. Sadeghi, who worked for a Massachusetts-based microelectronics manufacturer, assisted Abedini in obtaining sensitive electronic components from U.S. companies.

To facilitate these transactions, Abedini established a front company, Illumove SA, in Switzerland. 

Through Illumove, Abedini secured contracts with U.S. firms to acquire advanced technology, including semiconductors used in SDRA’s navigation systems. 

According to Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, “These men conspired to evade U.S. sanctions and supply the Iranian government with the type of drone navigation technology used in attacks targeting Americans.”