The United States has announced measures to disrupt revenue streams that support the Iranian regime's activities abroad and domestically. The Department of State is imposing sanctions on four entities involved in the Iranian petroleum trade, alongside identifying six vessels as blocked property. These actions are taken under Executive Order 13846, targeting illicit shipping networks facilitating Iran's oil exports to Asia.
The sanctioned entities include Brecalin Hong Kong Co Ltd, a company based in China that manages several vessels including Progress V, Scorpius, Tasca, and Eliza II. All these vessels have been identified as blocked properties due to Brecalin's involvement.
Shiny Sails Shipping Ltd from Seychelles is also sanctioned for its role in managing the vessel Avital. Additionally, Galaxy Management NV from Suriname and Atlantic Navigation OPC Pvt from India are targeted for their connections with the vessel Vigor.
Moreover, Ghezel Hesar Prison in Iran has been designated under section 106 of the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) for gross human rights violations against individuals exercising freedom of expression. This designation comes with implications that block all related properties within U.S. jurisdiction or control.
All transactions involving these designated entities by U.S. persons or within the United States are prohibited unless authorized by a license from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). The overarching aim of these sanctions is not punitive but rather to encourage positive behavioral changes.
Petitions for removal from the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List can be submitted via email to OFAC.Reconsideration@treasury.gov or through guidance provided on the Department of State’s Delisting Guidance page.
