The United States has announced sanctions on an international network involved in the transportation of Iranian crude oil to China. This network, operating under the aegis of Iran’s Armed Forces General Staff (AFGS) and its front company, Sepehr Energy Jahan Nama Pars (Sepehr Energy), is reportedly responsible for shipping millions of barrels worth billions of dollars. The funds generated from these sales are allegedly used to support various military activities including the development of ballistic missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), nuclear proliferation, and terrorist activities by Iran's proxies.
The U.S. Department of State emphasized that this action aligns with National Security Presidential Memorandum 2, which aims to exert maximum pressure on Iran by cutting off resources that facilitate its destabilizing actions. Tammy Bruce, Department Spokesperson, stated: "As long as Iran devotes its illicit revenues to funding attacks on the United States and our allies, supporting terrorism around the world, and pursuing other destabilizing actions, we will continue to use all the tools at our disposal to hold the regime accountable."
These measures have been implemented under Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886. Further details about these sanctions can be found in a press release from the Department of the Treasury.