U.S. Sanctions 26 Iranian Oil Smuggling Networks Funding Terror Groups
The U.S. has imposed sanctions on 26 Iranian oil smuggling networks funding terrorism. These sanctions target companies, vessels, and individuals linked to the IRGC-Qods Force and Houthis.
Central to the operation is the Syrian-based Al-Qatirji company, previously sanctioned in 2018 for facilitating oil trade between the Syrian regime and ISIS. The company has since become a key financial channel for the IRGC-QF.
In 2024, Al-Qatirji enabled the IRGC-QF to use hundreds of millions of dollars. A significant portion of this revenue has been funneled to the Houthis, with millions transferred monthly.
The U.S. Treasury revealed that vessels like BARON, LELIA, and ROMINA were used to smuggle Iranian oil, generating tens of millions of dollars to fund illegal activities.
Shipping companies in Panama, India, and Lebanon, including BlueSpectrum Shipping S.A. and Salina Ship Management Pvt Ltd, have also been sanctioned for managing these illicit operations.
Hussam Al-Qatirji, who now leads the Al-Qatirji company, has been sanctioned for managing oil trade and coordinating financial transactions with IRGC-QF officials and the Houthis.
Additional key figures, including ‘Abbas Katerji and Muhammad Agha Ahmed Rashdi Qatirji, have been designated for their roles in supporting Al-Qatirji’s illegal operations.
The U.S. vows to continue targeting these networks to disrupt Iran's ability to fund terrorism and limit its regional influence.