State Department targets individuals linked to KIPAS company
WASHINGTON: The United States Department of State announced hefty financial rewards for information regarding six individuals allegedly connected to the drone-production operations of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force.
According to US officials, the individuals are linked to the Kimia Part Sivan Company, also known as KIPAS, which Washington identified as part of the IRGC Quds Force’s drone manufacturing network.
The announcement forms part of ongoing American efforts to disrupt alleged Iranian military procurement and unmanned aerial vehicle development activities.
Furthermore, the State Department said the rewards programme aims to gather information that could help authorities identify, locate, or disrupt operations involving the targeted individuals and affiliated organisations.
However, US officials did not immediately disclose the exact amount being offered for each individual.
The latest move comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran over regional security, military activities, and Iran’s expanding drone capabilities.
Washington increases pressure over Iran’s military activities
Meanwhile, the United States has repeatedly accused Iran of supplying drones and military technology to allied groups operating across the Middle East.
American officials argue that Iran’s drone programme poses growing security concerns for regional allies and international stability.
Additionally, Washington has imposed multiple sanctions on Iranian entities and individuals linked to defence production, missile development, and unmanned aircraft programmes.
Iran, however, has consistently rejected accusations that its military activities threaten regional security and maintains that its defence capabilities are intended for deterrence purposes.
Political analysts believe the latest reward announcement reflects broader US efforts to increase economic and diplomatic pressure on Tehran during a period of rising regional instability.
At the same time, tensions between the two countries remain elevated due to disputes involving sanctions, nuclear negotiations, and military activity across the Middle East.
BREAKING: The US State Department is offering hefty rewards for information on six individuals it says are involved in the drone-production wing of Iran’s IRGC Quds Force, identified as the Kimia Part Sivan Company (KIPAS).
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