The United States has imposed sanctions on several Indian companies and individuals for their involvement in the sale of Iranian petroleum and petroleum products.
The Trump administration in the United States has sanctioned entities and individuals from India involved in sales of Iranian petroleum and petroleum products, saying the funds from this trade support Tehran’s regional terrorist proxies and procure weapons systems that are “a direct threat” to the US.
Details of the Sanctions
The US Departments of State and Treasury announced the designation of 17 entities and individuals, including TR6 Petro India LLP and RN Ship Management Private Limited. These companies are accused of facilitating the illicit trade of Iranian oil, which generates revenue for Iran’s destabilising actions in the Middle East. Among those sanctioned are Indian nationals Zair Husain Iqbal Husain Sayed and Zulfikar Hussain Rizvi Sayed, who are reportedly connected to these operations.
The Treasury Department highlighted that TR6 Petro engaged in significant transactions involving over $8 million worth of Iranian-origin bitumen between October 2024 and June 2025. This trade is seen as a direct violation of US sanctions aimed at curtailing Iran’s access to resources needed for its military and nuclear ambitions.
Impact on Regional Security
The US government reiterated that funds generated from these sales bolster Iran’s support for terrorist groups and contribute to its nuclear programme. The sanctions target a broader network of shipping operators and intermediaries that have been used to mask the origins of Iranian oil, allowing it to be sold on the international market despite existing sanctions.
US officials have expressed their commitment to using all available tools to hold Iran accountable for its actions. They emphasise that the goal of these sanctions is not punitive but rather to encourage a change in behaviour from the Iranian regime, which continues to threaten regional stability and global economic interests.
Ongoing Efforts Against Iranian Activities
The US will continue to enforce measures against maritime service providers and traders involved in the transportation of Iranian petroleum products. This ongoing campaign reflects the US’s strategy to deny Iran critical revenue streams that enable its military activities and support for terrorism.