U.S. unveils new Iran sanctions ahead of Geneva talks

The U.S. announced fresh sanctions targeting more than 30 individuals, entities and vessels tied to Iran’s petroleum sales and weapons production, calling the move part of a 'maximum pressure' campaign; the announcement comes ahead of talks between the two sides in Geneva.

The United States announced new sanctions targeting Iran on Wednesday. The Treasury Department said the measures target more than 30 individuals, entities and vessels connected to illicit petroleum sales and weapons-related activity. Officials described the action as part of a "maximum pressure" campaign. The announcement was made ahead of planned talks between the U.S. and Iran in Geneva. Key details: - The U.S. Treasury identified over 30 people, entities and vessels it said were enabling "illicit Iranian petroleum sales" and supporting weapons programs. - The measures singled out vessels described as part of Iran's "shadow fleet" that transport petroleum to foreign markets. - Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Iran exploits financial systems to sell illicit oil, launder proceeds and procure components for weapons and proxies, and said the administration would continue the pressure campaign. - Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was reported as expressing a favourable outlook for the upcoming Geneva talks. Summary: The sanctions are presented by U.S. officials as aimed at reducing revenue sources tied to petroleum sales and at constraining weapons-related activity. Both sides are set to meet in Geneva; further outcomes from those talks are undetermined at this time.