On February 6, 2025, the United States has announced a new wave of sanctions targeting an international network involved in financing Iran’s military through illicit oil sales. This action, announced by Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce, is part of ongoing efforts to counter Iran’s destabilizing activities and its support for terrorist organizations.
The newly sanctioned network has been accused of facilitating the sale of millions of barrels of Iranian oil to China. The revenue generated from these sales is funneled to Iran’s Armed Forces General Staff via the front company Sepehr Energy. According to the U.S. government, the proceeds are used to support terrorist and proxy groups, further exacerbating regional instability.
Additionally, the sanctions target shadow fleet vessels and management companies responsible for transporting Iranian oil. The U.S. aims to disrupt these financial channels, which are seen as critical enablers of Iran’s ability to fund armed groups such as Hamas and Hizballah.
In her statement, Bruce emphasized the United States’ commitment to holding the Iranian regime accountable for its actions, including its continued pursuit of nuclear capabilities. “We will use all tools at our disposal to hold the regime accountable for its destabilizing activities and pursuit of nuclear weapons that threaten the civilized world,” she declared.
These sanctions are implemented under Executive Order (E.O.) 13224, which authorizes counterterrorism measures, and E.O. 13902, which empowers the U.S. Treasury to impose economic restrictions on key sectors of Iran’s economy. The latest measures reflect Washington’s broader strategy to curb Iran’s influence and cut off financial streams that fuel its military ambitions.
More details on the sanctions and targeted entities can be found in the U.S. Treasury Department’s official release.
