The United States has imposed sanctions on China-based independent "teapot" refinery Hebei Xinhai Chemical Group Co., Ltd. and three oil terminal operators, charging them with purchasing or facilitating the delivery of hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of Iranian oil.
According to a statement by Tammy Bruce, Department Spokesperson, this is the third action taken by the US against a China-based independent teapot refinery since President Trump issued National Security Presidential Memorandum 2 on February 4, 2025. The designation follows the issuance of Executive Order (E.O.) 13902 and E.O. 13846, which target Iran's petroleum and petrochemical sectors, as well as Iranian petroleum exports.
The US claims that these sanctions will be applied so long as Iran attempts to generate oil revenues to fund its destabilizing activities. The Department of the Treasury has issued a press release with further information on this action.
The move is part of the President's campaign of maximum pressure on Iran, which was instituted after National Security Presidential Memorandum 2 was issued. The sanctions are aimed at disrupting Iranian oil sales and will continue to target those involved in sanctions evasion.
This latest development marks the latest round of sanctions targeting Iranian oil sales since the US implemented these measures. The designation of Hebei Xinhai Chemical Group Co., Ltd. and three oil terminal operators reflects the US's commitment to holding Iran accountable for its actions, as well as its partners who facilitate sanctions evasion.
The US will continue to monitor the situation closely and take further action as necessary to disrupt Iranian oil sales and hold those involved in sanctions evasion accountable.