Washington, DC – The US State Department announced Thursday new sanctions on 17 entities, individuals, and vessels linked to Iranian oil exports. This comes as part of Washington’s efforts to curb oil revenues, which the department says are used to support Tehran’s nuclear program and regional activities.
The ministry said in a statement that the sanctioned entities play a pivotal role in facilitating the sale and transport of Iranian crude oil and petroleum products. This is done through a vast network that includes maritime service companies, a shadow fleet, and oil brokers operating in several countries. They use clandestine and deceptive methods to deliver the oil to buyers.
The US State Department noted that this network not only contributes to bolstering the Iranian government’s financial resources, but also poses a threat to shipping security and freedom of navigation. This is achieved by transporting millions of barrels of oil through heavily trafficked areas.
For his part, US Treasury Secretary Scott Besant asserted that disrupting Iranian government revenue is “crucial” to halting its nuclear ambitions. This came amidst additional sanctions imposed by the Treasury Department in conjunction with measures taken by the State Department.
According to the statement, these sanctions were imposed pursuant to Executive Order 13846. This order freezes all assets and interests belonging to the targeted individuals and entities within the United States. It also includes assets controlled by U.S. persons.
