U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Iranian and Houthi-Related Entities

On Thursday, the United States imposed new sanctions on entities linked to Iran and the Houthi movement, targeting key individuals, companies, and vessels engaged in Iran’s illicit activities. According to the U.S. Treasury Department, these sanctions focus on three vessels involved in the trade of Iranian petroleum and petrochemicals, which contribute billions of dollars to the Iranian government, helping to fund its controversial nuclear program, development of ballistic missiles, and support for militant groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis.

Bradley Smith, acting under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, emphasized that the U.S. is committed to disrupting Iran’s key revenue streams, which fuel its destabilizing activities across the Middle East. He described Iran's operations as relying on a "shadowy network" of vessels, companies, and facilitators to continue its illicit trade.

The sanctions specifically target three ships involved in the illicit trade. These include:

- MS ENOLA, a crude oil tanker flagged in Djibouti and owned by Journey Investment Company.

- MS ANGIA, flagged in San Marino.

- MS MELENIA, flagged in Panama.

The latter two tankers are managed and operated by Rose Shipping Limited, which is registered in Liberia and Greece.

The sanctions freeze any property and assets connected to these entities within U.S. jurisdiction. U.S. persons and companies doing business with the sanctioned vessels and their related parties may face severe penalties, including fines and enforcement actions.

Iran’s Nuclear and Missile Programs

Iran insists that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, but these sanctions reflect ongoing concerns in the U.S. over the potential military applications of its technology. U.S. authorities remain focused on curbing Iran's ballistic missile development and its support for proxy groups that contribute to instability in the region.