US Sanctions Iranian Intelligence Officials Over Levinson Disappearance.

The United States has levied sanctions against three Iranian intelligence officers in response to their alleged involvement in the disappearance of former FBI Special Agent Robert Levinson. The US Treasury and State Departments announced the sanctions on Reza Amiri Moghadam, Gholamhossein Mohammadnia, and Taqi Daneshvar, all affiliated with Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security, on Tuesday.

These sanctions, implemented under an executive order targeting hostage-takers, aim to hold Iran accountable for Levinson’s abduction, detention, and presumed death, as well as the subsequent cover-up attempts. As a consequence, any assets held by the sanctioned individuals under US jurisdiction are blocked, and US citizens are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions with them. Furthermore, foreign entities risk potential blacklisting for dealing with the designated individuals.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent underscored the severity of the situation, stating that “Iran’s treatment of Mr. Levinson remains a blight on Iran’s already grim record of human rights abuse.” The US continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Levinson’s disappearance in 2007 while working as a private investigator, and to seek justice for his family.