US Targets Iran Shadow Fleet With New Sanctions

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East and mounting US military pressure on Iran, Washington has introduced fresh sanctions aimed at Tehran’s shadow fleet through the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

The latest measures target 12 vessels linked to Iran, along with companies accused of managing or operating them.

“Iran exploits financial systems to sell illicit oil, launder the proceeds, procure components for its nuclear and conventional weapons programs, and support its terrorist proxies,” said secretary of the treasury Scott Bessent.

The sanctions come at a sensitive moment, as Iranian and US representatives meet in Geneva for what are being described as last-minute nuclear negotiations. At the same time, Washington has reportedly increased its military presence in the region, deploying aircraft and naval assets in a show of pressure toward Tehran.