## Under Sanctions: Who is Affected Last Friday, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced the imposition of strict restrictions. The Chinese company Hengli Petrochemical (Dalian) Refinery Co. was sanctioned, which the agency called "one of Tehran's most valuable customers." In addition, the restrictions affected about forty shipping companies and tankers actively involved in transporting Iranian oil. These vessels are part of the so-called "shadow fleet" that facilitates the export of raw materials. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized Washington's determination. He stated, "The Treasury will continue to choke off the network of vessels, intermediaries, and buyers that Iran relies on to transport its oil to global markets." ## Tense Situation: War and Naval Blockade These new sanctions are a response to the current geopolitical situation, as the U.S. has established a naval blockade. This blockade targets vessels associated with Iran in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. The main goal of Washington is to completely cut off Iran's oil revenue streams. This occurred after Tehran, in turn, closed the strait in response to military actions initiated by the U.S. and Israel. ## Diplomatic Maneuvers: Negotiations in Pakistan Notably, the announcement of these strict restrictions came on the same day that the White House made an important statement. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and President Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner are heading to Pakistan for negotiations with Iranian officials. Earlier this week, Donald Trump stated in an interview with CNBC about the interception by U.S. forces of a boat with a "gift" from China. This statement was perceived as a veiled hint at potential arms supplies to Tehran.