US imposes sweeping sanctions on Iran-linked network 

The US Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on more than 115 Iran-linked individuals, entities, and vessels in a major escalation of its “maximum pressure” campaign following last month’s US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

The sanctions primarily target a global shipping network controlled by Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, son of Ali Shamkhani—an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader. Treasury officials stated that the network facilitated the sale of Iranian and Russian oil through intermediaries, generating billions of dollars for Tehran.

The move marks the most significant Iran-related sanctions action since 2018 and affects 15 shipping firms, 52 vessels, 12 individuals, and 53 entities across 17 countries, including Panama, Italy, and Hong Kong.

A senior US official said the measures are expected to further restrict Iran’s oil exports, which have already fallen to around 1.2 million barrels per day this year. The official added that while the sanctions will impact both Iran and Russia, the focus remains on Iran.

Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the sanctions as hostile and harmful to its economic development. The European Union sanctioned Shamkhani earlier in July for similar activities.

The latest US action comes amid stalled diplomatic efforts with Iran and warnings from President Trump that any attempt by Tehran to revive its bombed nuclear facilities would trigger further strikes.

Attribution: Reuters

Subediting: Y.Yasser