The United States Treasury Department announced Friday a new set of sanctions targeting oil tankers and entities allegedly connected to Iran. The sanctions are aimed at further restricting Iran’s ability to generate revenue through oil sales.
According to the Treasury Department, the measures target nine oil tankers, identified as part of a “shadow fleet,” and eight related entities. These entities are accused of facilitating the transportation of Iranian oil and petroleum products to foreign markets.
The Treasury Department’s statement directly links the sanctions to Washington’s efforts to increase pressure on Iran, citing the recent suppression of protests within the country. The Department claims that the targeted tankers and operating companies, based in locations including India, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, have collectively moved hundreds of millions of dollars worth of Iranian oil and petroleum products.
“Today’s sanctions target a key element in the mechanism by which Iran obtains funds for use in oppressing its people,” stated Treasury Secretary Scott Pisant. “As we have made clear previously, the Department will continue to track the tens of millions of dollars stolen by the regime and desperately trying to transfer them to banks outside Iran.”
Iran has recently experienced widespread protests driven by economic grievances, during which numerous casualties were reported. The US has repeatedly stated its intention to curb Iran’s oil revenue streams.
