Washington Targets Iran’s Oil Trade Amid Nuclear Talks

The United States on Friday announced new sanctions targeting Iran’s oil and petrochemical trade, hours after indirect talks between Tehran and Washington concluded in Oman.

The sanctions, unveiled by the US State Department, target 15 entities and 14 vessels linked to Iran’s so-called “shadow fleet,” used to transport petroleum and petrochemicals in violation of international restrictions.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the measures are part of a renewed “maximum pressure” campaign against Tehran. “The United States will act to hold both the Iranian regime and its partners accountable for attempting to evade sanctions and generate revenue for oppressive behavior and regional destabilization,” he said.

Among the entities sanctioned is India-based Elevate Marine Management Private Limited (ELEVATE), which managed the Cameroon-flagged tanker BENEDICT. The vessel allegedly transported Iranian petroleum products on multiple occasions between September and November 2025. Akash Anant Shinde, an Indian national, serves as the company’s director.

The announcement came shortly after a day of indirect negotiations in Muscat, mediated by Oman. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the talks as “a good start” and expressed cautious optimism, saying both sides agreed to continue discussions after consultations in their capitals.

Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi held separate meetings with Araghchi and US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, with US Navy Admiral Brad Cooper also present.

These talks mark the first formal engagement since the US joined Israel’s military action against Iran in June 2025, which damaged Iranian nuclear and missile infrastructure. Washington has since increased its military presence in the region, including deploying additional warships and aircraft.

US officials have indicated that discussions may extend beyond Iran’s nuclear programme to include missile capabilities and regional influence, although Iran has insisted on limiting talks to nuclear issues.

Tensions remain high in the region, with recent incidents including the US shooting down an Iranian drone and Iran attempting to intercept a US-flagged vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.

The new sanctions follow similar measures last month, targeting vessels allegedly moving hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of Iranian oil. US authorities say the “shadow fleet” plays a key role in financing Iran’s domestic repression and regional activities.