In a decisive effort to cut off funding for terrorism and curb the Iranian regime’s human rights abuses, the United States has announced sanctions on several entities involved in Iran’s illicit oil trade and the gross mistreatment of political prisoners. The U.S. Department of State designated four companies and six vessels that facilitate the transport of Iranian petroleum, while also blacklisting an Iranian prison notorious for its systemic abuse of detainees.
Today’s actions aim to weaken Iran’s ability to fund malign activities abroad while also holding accountable those responsible for human rights violations within the country.
Sanctions on Entities Linked to Iranian Oil Transport
The U.S. sanctions target key entities enabling the illicit export of Iranian oil to international markets, bypassing international sanctions designed to stifle Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and support for terrorism. These entities are part of a broader network of facilitators that use deceptive practices to obfuscate the origins of the oil, allowing it to be sold to buyers primarily in Asia.
Among the entities sanctioned is Brecalin Hong Kong Co. Ltd., a Chinese company acting as the commercial manager for several vessels transporting Iranian oil. Brecalin oversees the operations of four ships—PROGRESS V, SCORPIUS, TASCA, and ELIZA II—all of which have been identified as blocked property due to their association with the company. The U.S. government is taking action to ensure that these ships can no longer facilitate the illegal trade of Iranian oil.
Similarly, Shiny Sails Shipping Ltd., based in Seychelles, has been sanctioned for managing the vessel AVITAL, which is involved in the transport of Iranian petroleum. Galaxy Management NV, a company registered in Suriname, and Atlantic Navigation OPC Pvt, based in India, have also been sanctioned for their roles in facilitating Iranian oil shipments, particularly the vessel VIGOR.
These sanctions are designed to disrupt the flow of revenue to the Iranian regime, which has been linked to funding regional instability, supporting terrorist organizations, and undermining global security.
Human Rights Violations at Ghezel Hesar Prison
In addition to the sanctions on oil-related entities, the U.S. Department of State has designated Ghezel Hesar Prison, a notorious facility in Iran, for its gross violations of human rights. This prison has been identified as a site of systematic torture and cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment of detainees, particularly those imprisoned for peacefully exercising their right to freedom of expression. This designation is part of the U.S. government’s commitment to hold accountable those involved in suppressing political dissent and violating the basic human rights of Iranian citizens.
The sanctions on Ghezel Hesar Prison are issued under Section 106 of the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which targets entities responsible for human rights abuses or corruption. The move underscores the U.S. government’s ongoing efforts to push back against Iran’s authoritarian regime and to promote human rights and democratic reforms.
Sanctions Implications and Enforcement
As a result of today’s actions, all property and interests of the designated entities, individuals, and vessels that are under U.S. jurisdiction are now blocked. U.S. persons are prohibited from engaging in any transactions with these entities or vessels, including the provision of funds, goods, or services. This includes both direct and indirect ownership of 50 percent or more by any of the blocked parties, which could affect other companies or individuals associated with the entities involved.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) will oversee enforcement of these sanctions, which are intended not only to penalize but also to encourage a change in behavior. As with all sanctions, the goal is to pressure the Iranian regime to alter its actions, particularly in relation to its nuclear program, support for terrorism, and disregard for human rights.
International Cooperation and Accountability
This latest round of sanctions builds on previous actions taken by the United States against Iran, with similar measures being adopted by international allies. The sanctions serve as a reminder to other countries and companies that engaging in the transport or facilitation of Iranian oil trade will not be tolerated and will result in penalties.
The U.S. government has also made clear its intention to hold the Iranian regime accountable for its human rights abuses, as part of a broader strategy of international pressure. By targeting both the financial networks supporting Iran’s malign activities and the institutions that perpetrate abuses against the Iranian people, Washington aims to undermine the regime’s grip on power and foster a change toward greater respect for human rights.
Moving Forward: Continuing Pressure on Iran
The United States remains committed to isolating Iran on the global stage and limiting its ability to engage in activities that destabilize the region or violate the rights of its own citizens. Today’s sanctions underscore the U.S. commitment to disrupting illicit financial flows, holding human rights violators accountable, and standing in solidarity with the Iranian people in their pursuit of freedom and justice.
For those seeking to challenge these sanctions, petitions for removal from the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List may be submitted to OFAC.Reconsideration@treasury.gov or by referring to the Department of State’s Delisting Guidance page. However, the U.S. government maintains that sanctions are a tool to bring about constructive change in behavior, not to punish without cause.
The U.S. government will continue to work with its international partners to ensure that Iran faces the consequences of its actions on the world stage.