The U.S. Treasury Department has announced new sanctions aimed at what it describes as an Iranian regime network using the Strait of Hormuz to raise money as the country faces economic strain. The action, issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, targets activity linked to maritime operations and Iran’s broader effort to keep revenue flowing despite existing restrictions.
According to the announcement, the sanctions focus on an illicit maritime insurance scheme as well as Iran’s so-called shadow fleet. U.S. officials say these structures help Tehran move oil and related trade through opaque channels, allowing the government to monetize one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes.
The Treasury framed the move as part of a wider campaign to disrupt sanctions evasion and reduce the financial support available to the Iranian regime. By going after shipping and insurance networks, Washington is seeking to make it harder for vessels and intermediaries to operate outside the formal international system.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a vital artery for global energy shipments, so any enforcement action connected to traffic in the area draws close attention from markets and policymakers. This latest OFAC step underscores the U.S. focus on maritime pressure points in its effort to counter Iran’s revenue channels.
