US Sanctions Iranian, Russian Groups for Disinformation

The United States has imposed sanctions on two organizations linked to Iranian and Russian disinformation campaigns targeting American voters ahead of the November elections. Treasury officials allege that these groups aimed to create divisions and undermine trust in the electoral process through fake videos and misleading social media. The Russian organization, the Center for Geopolitical Expertise, is accused of producing deepfake videos and financing disinformation initiatives, while the Iranian group, the Cognitive Design Production Center, is tied to Iran's Revolutionary Guard and has been involved in inciting political tensions. Treasury's acting undersecretary, Bradley T. Smith, emphasized the intent of both governments to disrupt U.S. democracy. These sanctions reflect ongoing concerns regarding external interference in American elections and the integrity of democratic processes.