On Thursday, July 30th, 2026, the United States imposed sanctions on two China-based companies and a Chinese executive over their alleged support for Iran’s Mahan Air. The US Treasury Department described Mahan Air as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) “airline of choice” for transporting weapons, military personnel, and equipment.

The sanctioned entities include Shanghai Wings International Logistics Co, which served as a general sales agent for Mahan Air and coordinated the transportation of electronics from China to Iran. The company’s managing director, Tang Xin, was also sanctioned for allegedly coordinating travel for the Iranian carrier.

Tang Xin is the executive director and 50 percent owner of Shanghai Elite International Travel Co, which represents Mahan Air in China. This travel company was designated due to its ownership and links to Tang.

This action marks the second consecutive day that Washington targeted mainland China- or Hong Kong-linked businesses accused of supporting Tehran, broadening its pressure campaign from Iranian oil shipments to aviation, travel, and cargo services.

The sanctions freeze any assets the designated parties hold in the United States or under US control and generally prohibit Americans from conducting business with them. Additionally, foreign financial institutions that knowingly facilitate significant transactions on their behalf could face secondary sanctions.

Sources