FACTBOX-Iranian banks among U.S. sanctions targets

(Reuters) - The United States on Thursday announced new sanctions against more than 20 Iranian individuals and companies, including major banks, to step up pressure on Iran to abandon its nuclear program and support for militants.

Following is a list of banks designated by the sanctions:

* Bank Melli, Iran's largest bank, which the United States accuses of providing banking services to Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs as well as the Revolutionary Guards and Qods force;

* Bank Mellat, which provides banking services to the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran and Novin Energy Co.; Both are involved Iran's nuclear program and designated under U.N. security resolutions against Iran, the State Department said;

* Bank Saderat, described by U.S. officials as channeling funds to militant organizations including Hezbollah, Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. The three groups are designated as terrorist organizations by the State Department.