The United States Department of the Treasury announced on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, on the eve of a new round of negotiations between Washington and Tehran, that it has sanctioned more than 30 individuals, entities, and vessels allegedly involved in the “illegal sale of Iranian oil” as well as Iran’s weapons production programs.
According to the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), vessels operating as part of Iran’s “shadow fleet” — which transport Iranian oil and petroleum products to foreign markets — were specifically targeted in order to pressure the revenue streams of Iranian authorities.
In a statement, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said: “Iran uses financial systems to sell oil illegally, launder the proceeds, procure components for its nuclear and conventional weapons programs, and support terrorist proxy forces.”
He emphasized that the Trump administration will continue its “maximum pressure campaign against Iran to target the regime’s weapons capabilities and its support for terrorism.”
The new sanctions list includes four individuals linked to Qods Aviation Industries, as well as 16 companies and entities.
The Treasury Department also designated twelve oil tankers involved in transporting Iranian crude oil and gas as subject to sanctions.
