The U.S. blacklisted “the Iran Space Agency and two of its research institutes … for engaging in proliferation-sensitive activities”. In a statement, Secretary of State Pompeo noted that “this is the first time the U.S. is designating Iran’s civilian space agency for activities that advance its ballistic missile program”, adding that “the U.S. will not allow Iran to use its space launch program as cover to advance its ballistic missile programs”. The following day Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif stated “the Americans are addicted to sanctions… these U.S. sanctions have no effect and the world is also beginning to ridicule the U.S.”