WASHINGTON: The United States has announced a $15 million reward for information leading to the disruption of an alleged financial network linked to Iran’s drone programme, escalating pressure on entities accused of supporting the country’s military operations.
The reward was announced by the Rewards for Justice programme run by the US State Department. According to the programme, the offer targets information about financial networks associated with Kimia Pars Sepehran Company (KIPAS), which Washington alleges is involved in producing drones for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Quds Force and its regional allies.
In a statement posted on the social media platform X, the programme said it is seeking information on seven senior officials, their associates and the financial infrastructure that allegedly supports the company’s operations.
US authorities said individuals who provide credible and actionable information may qualify not only for the financial reward but could also receive assistance with relocation if necessary.
The announcement identified the individuals of interest as Hassan Aram Banizadeh, Reza Naharvani, Mehdi Naqaneh, Hadi Zavaraki, Abolfazl Meshkani, Abbas Sartaji, and Ehsan Mohaghegh.
The latest reward offer is part of Washington’s broader campaign to disrupt networks it believes are involved in the financing, development and distribution of unmanned aerial vehicles used by Iran and affiliated groups across the Middle East.
US officials have repeatedly accused Iran of supplying drones and military technology to allied armed groups operating in the region. Tehran, however, has consistently rejected allegations that it provides weapons in violation of international obligations, maintaining that its military activities are conducted within its national defence framework.
The new announcement comes amid continued tensions between Washington and Tehran over regional security, sanctions and Iran’s military capabilities. Analysts say targeting financial facilitators has become a key element of the US strategy to weaken supply chains supporting Iran’s drone programme.
The Rewards for Justice initiative has previously offered multimillion-dollar rewards for information related to terrorism, sanctions evasion and other activities considered threats to US national security. The latest offer underscores Washington’s continued focus on disrupting networks it believes contribute to Iran’s expanding drone capabilities.
