The United States has once again announced new economic sanctions against Iran. The administration led by US President Donald Trump stated that sanctions have been imposed targeting 30 individuals, several companies, and some vessels linked to Iran.
According to the US, those individuals and entities are involved in Iran’s ballistic missile program, the production of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), and the covert sale of oil in violation of existing sanctions. The decision was made public by the Office of Foreign Assets Control under the US Department of the Treasury.
The sanctions list also includes aging oil tankers allegedly operating under Iran’s so-called “shadow fleet.” The US claims these vessels have been used to secretly export oil despite international restrictions.
With the new sanctions in place, the listed individuals and companies will be barred from accessing any assets, bank accounts, or financial systems within the United States. In addition, US citizens and companies are prohibited from engaging in any business dealings with them.
However, analysts note that many of the targeted parties have limited assets within the United States, and therefore view the move largely as a symbolic measure intended to increase pressure.
The sanctions were announced ahead of planned talks between the United States and Iran regarding Iran’s nuclear program, scheduled to take place in Geneva later this week. The discussions, to be mediated by Oman, are expected to include US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian officials.
Observers see the timing of the sanctions as a strategic effort by Washington to increase diplomatic pressure before negotiations. President Trump has made it clear that Iran will not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons under any circumstances.
According to the US administration, Iran has enriched uranium to levels close to weapons-grade capability. Iran, however, maintains that its nuclear program is strictly for peaceful purposes.
The US has stated that its policy of maintaining maximum pressure on Iran will continue. The outcome of the upcoming talks is being closely watched by the international community to determine whether tensions will ease or escalate further.
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