WASHINGTON, Oct 18, 2023 (BSS/AFP) - US authorities unveiled sanctions on supporters of Iran's missile and drone programs Wednesday, targeting actors based in Iran, Hong Kong, China and Venezuela as restrictions to constrain the country's missile-related activities lapse.

"Iran's reckless choice to continue its proliferation of destructive UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) and other weapons prolongs numerous conflicts in regions around the world," said Brian Nelson, Treasury under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, in a statement.

The announcement also comes as the European Union has acted to retain restrictive measures under the EU non-proliferation regime on Iran -- beyond a deadline in a landmark nuclear deal.

The Treasury Department said in a statement on Wednesday that it was sanctioning 11 individuals, eight entities and one vessel.

The people targeted have "materially supported" Iran in the "production and proliferation of missiles and UAVs," the Treasury added.

The action was taken jointly with the State Department, which is designating eight individuals and entities.