July 7, 2026, 9:44 p.mJul 7, 2026, 9:52 p.m
US President Donald Trump has ended the war to such an extent that he is now talking about sanctions again.Image: keystone
The US has reinstated previously relaxed sanctions on Iranian oil. The US Treasury Department announced that an exemption granted a good two weeks ago will be revoked. New transactions with crude oil, petrochemicals and petroleum products of Iranian origin are once again prohibited.
A US government official said the exemption was being revoked because the framework agreement with Iran was based on its behavior. Iran will only benefit from economic relief if it meets its obligations. Tehran’s behavior in the Strait of Hormuz is “completely unacceptable” for the USA.
Attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz
Recently, several tankers were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran initially did not officially comment on the allegations or claim responsibility. However, Iran has repeatedly stated in recent days that only the route it has specified through the Strait of Hormuz is safe.
Business that has already begun and has been previously approved may only be completed until July 17th. According to the ministry, new purchases or loading of ships with Iranian oil are no longer permitted.
Sanctions were eased as part of the framework agreement
The original exemption was granted on June 21 after talks between Washington and Tehran. This temporarily suspended US bans on the production, supply and sale of Iranian crude oil and other petroleum products. This initially applied until August 21st. The easing was part of a preliminary agreement with which both sides wanted to enable negotiations on a permanent agreement.
With the new approval, Washington is increasing economic pressure on Tehran. The Strait of Hormuz is extremely important for the oil trade. Because it was virtually impossible for tankers to pass through during the war, prices around the world shot up. With the exemption, the USA had temporarily calmed the energy markets. (sda/dpa)