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U.S. authorities have arrested an Iranian-American and a Swiss-Iranian for allegedly exporting sensitive technology to Iran. Investigators believe this technology played a role in a January 2024 drone strike that killed three U.S. soldiers and injured 47 others. The attack occurred at a military outpost in Jordan near the Syrian border.
Attack Claim and Concerns
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a coalition of Iran-backed militias, claimed responsibility for the attack. This tragic event has intensified global concerns about the misuse of exported technologies in armed conflicts.
Arrests and Charges
Federal prosecutors in Boston charged Mohammad Abedininajafabadi, also known as Mohammad Abedini, and Mahdi Sadeghi with conspiring to violate U.S. export laws. Abedini, a dual citizen of Switzerland and Iran, co-founded an Iranian-based company involved in the case. Italian authorities arrested him in Milan, and he now awaits extradition to the U.S. Meanwhile, law enforcement apprehended Sadeghi, an Iranian-born U.S. citizen, in Natick, Massachusetts.
Technology Trail
According to U.S. investigators, Abedini used a Swiss-based company as a front to purchase sensitive U.S. technologies. These acquisitions included accelerometers and gyroscopes made by Analog Devices, a Massachusetts-based semiconductor company. Sadeghi, who worked at Analog Devices, allegedly helped Abedini obtain the equipment.
The FBI traced these navigation components to Abedini’s Iranian company, SDRA, where they reportedly became essential for the drone’s operation.
Official Statements
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco underscored the importance of protecting sensitive technologies. She stated:
“Today, working with our partners here and abroad, we have charged and arrested two men who conspired to evade U.S. sanctions and supply the Iranian government with the type of drone navigation technology used in that attack.”
For the complete statement, visit the U.S. Department of Justice’s website.
Company Involvement
Analog Devices confirmed Sadeghi’s employment and emphasized their full cooperation with law enforcement. The company reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding sensitive technology and preventing unauthorized access.
Disruptive Technology Strike Force
The U.S. government’s Disruptive Technology Strike Force coordinated the arrests. This interagency initiative focuses on stopping hostile nations from exploiting advanced technologies. The Strike Force’s work demonstrates ongoing efforts to secure U.S. supply chains and prevent illicit activities.
Broader Implications
This case highlights the challenges of enforcing export controls and protecting sensitive technologies. The deadly drone strike in Jordan underscores the risks of advanced technologies falling into the wrong hands. The arrests signal a firm commitment by the U.S. to prevent similar incidents in the future.
