August M
The United States has imposed new sanctions on a network of companies and individuals accused of helping Iran export oil to China, intensifying Washington’s economic pressure campaign against Tehran.
The measures were announced days before US President Donald Trump is expected to visit Beijing for high-level talks likely to include Iran and global energy security, reports Kyiv Post.
New sanctions issued
According to the US Treasury Department, 12 individuals and entities were sanctioned for allegedly facilitating the sale and transport of Iranian oil through front companies.
Officials said the operations were linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Washington accuses of concealing oil shipments through businesses based in permissive overseas jurisdictions.
Reuters and AFP reported that the sanctions target three individuals in Iran along with nine companies operating in Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates.
Under the measures, any assets held in the United States by those named will be frozen, while American citizens and businesses are prohibited from dealing with them.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the administration would continue using economic pressure to limit Iran’s financial resources.
Pressure on Tehran
“As Iran’s military desperately tries to regroup, Economic Fury will continue to deprive the regime of funding for its weapons programs, terrorist proxies, and nuclear ambitions,” Bessent said in a statement.
The sanctions form part of a broader strategy combining economic restrictions with diplomatic and military pressure during escalating tensions involving Tehran.
Washington had earlier relaxed some restrictions on Iranian oil exports because of global supply concerns, but officials have since reversed course with tighter enforcement measures.
The latest actions also follow previous sanctions targeting China-linked firms accused of assisting Iranian military and supply operations.
Energy market fears
The conflict has contributed to instability in global energy markets, particularly after disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
Analysts say concerns over supply interruptions have increased pressure on major economies dependent on energy imports.
Trump is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing later this week, with trade tensions expected to dominate discussions.
However, Reuters reported that the Iran conflict and energy security issues are also likely to feature prominently during the talks.
Sources: Reuters, AFP, US Treasury Department
