U.S. Expands Sanctions on Iranian Oil Network Amid Indirect Talks
The United States has announced new sanctions targeting a network involved in the transportation and acquisition of Iranian crude oil, petroleum products, and petrochemical products. This move is part of ongoing efforts to pressure Iran economically and curb its ability to fund destabilizing activities. The sanctions list includes 14 tankers and 15 entities, with companies based in the UAE, China, India, Kazakhstan, and Turkey, as well as front companies in the Seychelles and Marshall Islands. The announcement coincides with the start of indirect talks between U.S. officials and Iran's Foreign Minister in Oman, focusing on nuclear issues, ballistic missiles, and Iran's support for regional military groups. The NGO United Against Nuclear Iran identified several of the sanctioned vessels as previously evading sanctions. The U.S. State Department emphasized its commitment to act against networks supporting Iran's oil industry, which is a primary source of income for the regime. 
