Thu Feb 06 17:59:52 UTC 2025: ## Trump Re-Imposes “Maximum Pressure” on Iran with New Sanctions Targeting Oil Network
**Washington, DC** – The Trump administration has launched a renewed campaign of “maximum pressure” against Iran, unveiling the first sanctions since his return to the White House. The Treasury Department announced sanctions targeting Iran’s oil network on Thursday, impacting firms, ships, and individuals linked to previously sanctioned entities. These actions follow Trump’s recent executive order aiming to cut Iran’s oil exports to zero.
The sanctions, encompassing entities and individuals in countries including China, India, and the UAE, aim to curb Iran’s ability to fund its nuclear program, ballistic missile development, and support for regional proxies, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Iran has denounced the sanctions as “piracy.”
This move marks a departure from the Biden administration’s approach, which, while maintaining sanctions, was criticized by Republicans for not being sufficiently stringent in halting Iranian oil sales, particularly to China. Trump’s executive order directs a review and tightening of existing sanctions to achieve the goal of zero oil exports.
Despite the renewed pressure, Trump has indicated a willingness to engage in diplomacy with Iran, stating his desire for a successful Iran that does not possess nuclear weapons. Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons, but its continued uranium enrichment remains a major concern. The State Department echoed the administration’s stance, labeling Iran’s oil exports as “illicit” and linking the proceeds to terrorist activities. The renewed sanctions come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, including the recent conflict in Gaza.
First Piper 