US-Iranian Citizen Charged With Illegally Exporting UAV Parts to Iran

Gholam Reza Goodarzi, a dual U.S. and Iranian citizen living in Porter, Texas, made his initial appearance in a Texas federal court on Sept. 3 after his arrest for allegedly smuggling parts used in the production of unmanned aerial vehicles to Iran, DOJ announced.

The U.S. alleged that from December 2020 through July 5, 2024, Goodarzi exported aircraft parts and oil and drilling components to Iran. He allegedly bought U.S.-origin parts from U.S.-based suppliers then shipped them to Iran through third countries, primarily through the United Arab Emirates. DOJ alleged that Goodarzi also smuggled aircraft parts and other items in his luggage while frequently traveling to Iran.

Goodarzi faces a maximum of 10 years in prison for the smuggling charge and a $250,000 fine.