US imposes new sanctions on Iran right after Oman talks end | World News

The US State Department is targeting 15 organizations, two individuals and 14 shadow fleet ships. These are linked to Iran’s illicit oil, petroleum and petrochemical trade. The proceeds finance Iran’s harmful activities.

“The State Department is imposing sanctions on 15 entities, two individuals, and 14 shadow fleet vessels tied to the illicit trade in Iranian oil, petroleum products, and petrochemicals. These targets generated the revenue the regime uses to conduct its malign activities,” U.S. State Department Deputy Chief Spokesperson Thomas “Tommy” Pigott said in a press release.

“Instead of investing in the well-being of its own people and crumbling infrastructure, the Iranian regime continues to finance destabilizing activities around the world and increase pressure within Iran,” he added.

He also stated that the United States will continue to hold Iran and its partners accountable. This is possible as long as Iran evades sanctions to make money from oil. Iran uses this money for oppression, terrorist groups and proxies.

“The President aims to cut Iran’s illegal oil and petrochemical sales. This fits with the administration’s maximum pressure plan,” said the US State Department Deputy Spokesperson.

The announcement came minutes after key Iran-US talks on nuclear issues in Oman. This timing underscores ongoing tensions.

The delegation was headed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The American side was led by US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff. They met in Oman to discuss Tehran’s nuclear program.

The meeting came after a tumultuous week. Previous plans called for regional countries to participate in the negotiations in Türkiye. Both sides focused on important nuclear issues.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi feels hopeful after nuclear talks with the United States. He called it a good start for his plans to continue speaking out. His team will decide the next steps in the capital.

Araghchi said there was an understanding to continue with state television. He said steady progress could lead to a solid framework agreement, Reuters reports.

On the other hand, Omani Foreign Minister met separately with Iran’s Abbas Araghchi, then US ambassador Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

The talks aimed to create conditions for the resumption of nuclear diplomacy and technical studies. Oman underlined their value in terms of lasting security and stability. Both sides demonstrated a strong commitment to success.