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U.S. Treasury sanctions 12 individuals and entities over Iranian oil sales to China

CNBC

Last updated: May 12, 2026

The U.S. Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on twelve individuals and entities for their involvement in facilitating Iran's oil sales to China. This action is part of the ongoing efforts by the U.S. to increase pressure on Iran's oil sector and limit its revenue streams.

The U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated these targets under its counterterrorism and counter-proliferation authorities. The sanctions aim to disrupt a network that has been instrumental in the illicit sale and shipment of Iranian oil, particularly to China. This move underscores the U.S. commitment to enforcing its sanctions regime against Iran. The sanctioned parties include shipping companies, brokers, and individuals who allegedly played key roles in circumventing international sanctions. This development reflects the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding Iran's energy exports and the U.S. strategy to curb them. The Treasury Department stated that these actions are intended to disrupt the flow of funds to the Iranian regime and its destabilizing activities in the region. The U.S. government continues to monitor and act against those who seek to undermine sanctions related to Iran's oil trade.