U.S. Treasury Launches Largest Sanctions Package on Iran Since 2018
US slaps largest Iran sanctions since 2018, targeting 50+ entities & vessels tied to Khamenei-linked oil network. Measures aim to disrupt billions in illicit oil trade with China & Russia, including arms-for-oil deals.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The United States announced a sweeping new sanctions package against Iran on Wednesday, marking the largest Iran-related measure since 2018. The sanctions target more than 50 individuals, entities, and a vast fleet of vessels allegedly tied to a senior official in Tehran’s government.
The U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) confirmed the move in a statement, describing it as the most significant action against Iran since the Trump administration withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal.
According to the Treasury, the newly sanctioned network includes a commercial maritime fleet comprised of oil tankers and container ships associated with individuals closely connected to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
In total, the U.S. designated 115 individuals, entities, and vessels linked to Iran. The sanctions come amid a broader escalation following last month’s strikes on key Iranian nuclear sites and are part of the Trump administration’s intensified “maximum pressure” campaign.
The Treasury accused the targeted network of laundering billions of dollars through oil and commodity shipments from Iran and Russia, with most of the trade funneled to China. The sanctioned parties reportedly used foreign passports and front companies to mask their global operations, circumvent international sanctions, and amass wealth.
The statement also revealed that some of the ships within this network were involved in transporting missiles and drone components to Russia in exchange for Russian oil—a revelation that further intensifies concerns over Iran’s expanding military and economic partnerships.
This latest round of sanctions underscores Washington’s resolve to counter Iran’s regional and international influence by targeting its financial lifelines and illicit trade operations.
