US Sanctions 35 Individuals, Entities for Iran Sanctions Evasion

The U.S. government sanctioned 35 individuals and entities involved in Iran's 'shadow banking' network and warned of further sanctions against Chinese refiners.

Wed Apr 29 2026

Sanctions on Iran's 'Shadow Banking' Network

The United States government, on April 28, imposed sanctions on 35 individuals and entities involved in Iran's shadow banking network as part of its efforts to increase pressure on Iran. According to the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), these entities allegedly facilitated tens of billions of dollars in financial transfers linked to Iran's sanctions evasion and terrorism support activities.

Warning of Sanctions on Chinese Refiners and Background

OFAC also warned banks against engaging in transactions with companies that pay passage fees to the Iranian government or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Independent refiners, primarily in China's Shandong province, have been involved in importing and refining Iranian crude oil. Some of these entities reportedly used the U.S. financial system for dollar-denominated transactions and acquired U.S. products. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stated that Iran's shadow banking system is a critical source of funding for its military, enabling activities that disrupt global trade and fuel violence in the Middle East.

*Source: ニューズウィーク日本版 (2026-04-29)*

Tags: #Iran #US #Sanctions #Shadow Banking #China