
Washington: The US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) imposed new sanctions on Iranian companies and shipping brokers supporting the country’s armed forces through oil sales. The move aims to curb funding for Iran’s nuclear weapons program and its support for terrorist groups.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the sanctions are part of a broader effort to block Iranian revenue, which is crucial to limiting the country’s nuclear ambitions. The measures target six vessels and expand restrictions on non-governmental oil tankers that Iran relies on to export crude to global markets.
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Under the Trump administration, over 170 vessels involved in transporting Iranian oil and petroleum products have already been sanctioned. These restrictions have increased costs for exporters and reduced revenue earned per barrel by the Iranian government.
OFAC also announced additional sanctions against Iranian airline Mahan Air. US officials said the airline has cooperated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Quds Force to supply weapons and equipment to Iranian-backed groups across the Middle East.
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The sanctions are part of continued US efforts to pressure Iran economically and militarily, aiming to limit its regional influence and nuclear capabilities.