The United States has imposed new sanctions on an international oil smuggling network funneling illicit revenue to Iran’s military, reinforcing its commitment to counter Tehran’s destabilizing activities in the Middle East and beyond.
The sanctions target a clandestine financial network that has facilitated the sale of millions of barrels of Iranian oil to China, generating substantial revenue for Iran’s Armed Forces General Staff. These sales, funneled through the front company Sepehr Energy, directly finance Iran’s military operations and support terrorist organizations, including Hamas and Hizballah.
Crackdown on Iran’s Shadow Fleet and Financial Operations
In addition to sanctioning key facilitators of Iran’s illicit oil trade, the U.S. is also targeting shadow fleet vessels and management companies involved in transporting Iranian crude. These entities play a critical role in evading international sanctions, enabling Iran to continue funding its proxies and expanding its regional influence through destabilizing activities.
“The United States will not tolerate Iran’s destructive actions,” said Department of State Spokesperson Tammy Bruce. “By sanctioning this illicit network, we are cutting off a key financial lifeline for Iran’s armed forces and its terrorist affiliates.”
Legal Basis for Sanctions and Further Measures
The latest sanctions are imposed under:
- Executive Order (E.O.) 13224 (as amended): A counterterrorism authority targeting individuals and entities financing terrorist activities.
- Executive Order (E.O.) 13902: Grants the U.S. Treasury authority to sanction key sectors of Iran’s economy, including oil, petrochemicals, and financial services.
These actions align with Washington’s broader strategy to disrupt Iran’s access to global financial markets, blocking revenue streams that fuel Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, regional militancy, and threats to international stability.
U.S. Pledges Continued Pressure on Iran
The U.S. government reaffirmed its commitment to using all available tools to hold Iran accountable. These measures come amid heightened tensions, with Iran’s growing support for regional proxies and its pursuit of advanced military capabilities drawing international concern.
“We are taking decisive action to disrupt Iran’s illicit funding networks,” said Bruce. “The world cannot afford to allow Iran’s military and terrorist groups to continue their reckless actions unchecked.”
Further Details and Future Actions
For more information on the sanctioned entities and vessels, visit the U.S. Department of Treasury’s official press release:
? Treasury Press Release
The U.S. has vowed to continue its maximum pressure campaign against Iran, working with international allies to disrupt illicit trade networks and prevent Tehran from financing regional conflicts.