The United States still sanctions Iranian oil. In 2018, Trump re-imposed sanctions to pressure Iran to renegotiate its nuclear deal. These sanctions caused a significant impact on Iran’s economy, leading to oil export decline.
The Iranian oil tanker Suez Rajan has been anchored off the Texas coast since May 30, 2023. It carries 800,000 barrels of confiscated Iranian oil.
Commercial agents fear unloading it due to customer shunning. Iran threatens retaliation against oil companies that unload the oil.
Several other Iranian tankers have been detained or seized by foreign governments recently. Iran accuses the US and allies of waging an “economic war.”
The Suez Rajan standoff reflects ongoing US-Iran tensions.
Sanctions on Iranian oil caused a significant impact on Iran’s economy, sharply reducing oil exports. The Iranian government warned of retaliation, while the US threatens action against countries helping Iran evade sanctions. The standoff may continue, with an uncertain resolution.