The Trump administration imposed new sanctions Thursday targeting Iranian oil trade networks, including a Chinese crude storage terminal linked to sanctioned Iranian shipments, just days before rare US-Iran negotiations in Oman. The move signals Washington’s intent to maintain “maximum pressure” despite diplomatic overtures.
Key Sanctions Targets:
🇨🇳 Guangsha Zhoushan Energy Group:
Operates a Zhoushan Island oil terminal connected to Chinese “teapot” refineries.
Accused of handling 13M barrels of Iranian crude (2021–2025) via sanctioned tankers.
🇦🇪 UAE-Based Shipping Network:
Indian national Jugwinder Singh Brar and 4 companies sanctioned for illicit ship-to-ship transfers of Iranian oil.
Why It Matters:
Timing Puzzle: Sanctions dropped 48 hours before US-Iran talks, breaking precedent of pausing pressure during diplomacy.
China’s Defiance: Beijing rejects US sanctions, using yuan-based trades and shadow fleets to keep Iranian oil flowing.
Iran’s Lifeline: Despite sanctions, Iran exports 1.5M bpd (vs. Trump’s “zero” goal), aided by Chinese and UAE intermediaries.
Market & Diplomatic Impact:
Oil Prices: Brent crude held near $65/barrel, with traders skeptical sanctions will dent global supply.
Oman Talks: Analysts see low odds of breakthrough given Trump’s threat of “great danger” if negotiations fail.
Enforcement Gaps: Experts note US avoided targeting Chinese banks or insurers, limiting sanctions’ bite.