Two men, Mahdi Mohammad Sadeghi and Mohammad Abedininajafabadi, have been charged for illegally supplying sensitive technology to Iran used in a deadly drone attack in Jordan, which resulted in the deaths of three U.S. service members. Sadeghi may face up to 20 years in prison, while Abedininajafabadi could receive a life sentence for his involvement. The FBI is pursuing charges under U.S. laws prohibiting support to terrorist organizations.
Federal prosecutors have arrested two individuals, Mahdi Mohammad Sadeghi and Mohammad Abedininajafabadi, on charges of illegally providing sensitive technology to Iran, which was subsequently utilized in a drone attack on a U.S. military base in Jordan. This incident resulted in the deaths of three American service members and injuries to over 40 others. Sadeghi, a dual U.S.-Iranian citizen residing in Massachusetts, and Abedininajafabadi, an Iranian national living in Tehran, are accused of conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The drone attack, attributed to an Iranian-backed militant group, prompted a response from the U.S. military, including airstrikes on Iranian-affiliated entities in the region. Prosecutors allege that a navigation system used in the drone was sourced from Abedininajafabadi’s company. Both men face severe penalties if convicted, with Abedininajafabadi facing a potential life sentence for providing material support to a terrorist organization.
The charges against Sadeghi and Abedininajafabadi stem from the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iranian-backed militant groups operating in the Middle East. The drone attack on Tower 22 in Jordan highlighted Iran’s capability to conduct military operations that target U.S. forces. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S., plays a significant role in supporting such actions. The illegal export of technology to a foreign entity poses national security risks and is a serious violation of U.S. law, particularly when regarding a state sponsor of terrorism.
The prosecution of Sadeghi and Abedininajafabadi signifies the commitment of U.S. authorities to enforce laws against those who aid terrorist activities. The implications of these arrests extend beyond individual accountability, highlighting the larger concern of illegal tech transfers to hostile nations. Upholding justice for the families of those affected by the January attack remains a priority for government officials, reflecting a broader strategy to deter future threats against American forces.
Original Source: www.usatoday.com