The United States has announced new sanctions aimed at disrupting revenue streams to the Iranian government, citing concerns over destabilizing activities in Iraq, the Middle East, and beyond. The action targets a network of companies and vessels led by Waleed al-Samarra’i, identified as a dual citizen of Iraq and Saint Kitts and Nevis, accused of smuggling Iranian oil disguised as Iraqi oil.
"Today, the United States is acting decisively to stem the flow of revenues to the Iranian regime for its destructive and destabilizing conduct in Iraq, the Middle East, and around the world," said Thomas “Tommy” Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson.
The U.S. government stated that these measures are part of ongoing efforts under National Security Presidential Memorandum 2. This directive seeks to apply maximum pressure on Iran by restricting its access to funds used for what Washington describes as destabilizing activities.
"The United States will continue to pursue measures implementing National Security Presidential Memorandum 2, which directs the imposition of maximum pressure on the Iranian regime to deny it access to revenues that fund its destabilizing activities. We will not hesitate to utilize all available tools at our disposal to counter those who enable Iran’s illicit oil trade," Pigott added.
The sanctions are being enforced under Executive Order 13902. This order authorizes penalties against individuals or entities operating within specific sectors of Iran’s economy—particularly petroleum and petrochemicals. Further details can be found in related Department of the Treasury press releases.