The Story of Gholam Reza Goodarzi: Smuggling Aircraft Parts to Iran
Gholam Reza Goodarzi, a 76-year-old dual U.S. and Iranian citizen residing in Porter, Texas, has been accused of endangering national security by smuggling aircraft parts to Iran. The federal charges allege that he has been involved in this illegal activity for nearly four years.
The feds claim that Goodarzi, also known as Ron Goodarzi, has been smuggling parts and components used in the production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and manned aircraft from the U.S. to Iran, a hostile country. This poses a significant threat to U.S. national security and could potentially enhance Iran’s military capabilities, leading to increased regional power and posing a threat to U.S. allies and interests in the Middle East.
Goodarzi was arrested on August 30 at Bush Intercontinental Airport. According to court documents, he committed these crimes from December 1, 2020, through July 5, 2024. The feds allege that he purchased aircraft components from U.S.-based suppliers and exported them to Iran, usually through Dubai, UAE.
Authorities claim that Goodarzi also traveled to and from Iran multiple times a year, concealing aircraft parts and other items in his checked luggage. They have searched his luggage several times and found aircraft parts and components hidden inside clothing.
The FBI, with assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Justice, conducted the investigation. If convicted, Goodarzi faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Robert Wells, FBI Executive Assistant Director of the National Security Branch, stated, “Illegally smuggling sensitive U.S. technology to a foreign nation jeopardizes our national security and undermines the integrity of our trade laws. The U.S. does not tolerate illegal smuggling of our advanced tech to our adversaries.”
It is crucial to safeguard sensitive technology and prevent its illegal transfer to foreign nations. Goodarzi’s case serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding trade laws and protecting national security.