WASHINGTON: The United States has again imposed sanctions on Iran’s oil sales, blaming Tehran for targeting commercial shipping in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, according to foreign media reports.
The US Treasury Department announced new restrictions that effectively cut short a previously granted exemption. Under a US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding signed last month, Washington had permitted Tehran to sell oil until August 21. However, the Treasury has now limited that window to July 17 – a move that significantly tightens the timeline for Iranian crude exports.
The decision comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region, where the US has accused Iran of attacking commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy shipments.
Iran Condemns US Move as Violation of Memorandum
Reacting sharply to the decision, Iran called the US sanctions a clear violation of the bilateral Memorandum of Understanding.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying Tehran would respond appropriately to protect its national interests and security.
“The United States has violated the Memorandum of Understanding, and the US is fully responsible for this situation,” the ministry said.
Iranian officials have not specified what form their response might take, but the rhetoric suggests a potential escalation in the standoff between the two countries.
