Washington: The United States slapped sanctions on British and Armenian firms today for unauthorized re-exports of aircraft to Iran, officials said.

The US Commerce Department suspended export privileges of British-based Balli Group PLC and related companies, Armenian-based Blue Airways, and Iran-based Mahan Airways for 180 days.

A statement said US officials learned that the companies "knowingly re-exported three US origin aircraft to Iran in violation of the Export Administration Regulations and are preparing to re-export three additional US origin aircraft to Iran in further violation of the (rules)."

In addition, the agency said "false statements were made" to US authorities on the ultimate destination and user of the aircraft.

The agency said it has ordered the redelivery to the United States of the three aircraft about to be re-exported to Iran.

But it said Balli Group PLC "has not complied and has indicated that it will not cooperate."

Source : PTI