U.S. sanctions firms accused of financing Hezbollah and Kata'ib Hizballah

The United States announced new sanctions under Operation Economic Outcast targeting Kata'ib Hizballah, Hezbollah and affiliated companies and individuals accused of financing Iran-backed terrorism and evading sanctions through commercial networks in Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Türkiye and Lebanon. Washington said the measures seek to disrupt the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force’s support for armed proxies, protect U.S. personnel and regional allies, and strengthen Iraqi sovereignty and Lebanese institutions. The actions come as regional officials report growing coordination between Yemen’s Houthis and Iran-backed Iraqi militias, including alleged assistance in drone attacks against Saudi interests. The developments highlight the risk that efforts to pressure Iran economically could intensify attacks on U.S. allies and further destabilize the region.