The United States is expected to allow a temporary waiver on sanctions for Iranian oil shipments to expire later this week, according to administration sources.
The decision means restrictions on Iranian oil exports will be tightened again as the waiver period ends on April 19.
Donald Trump administration officials said the move is part of a broader effort to increase pressure on Iran during the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The waiver, issued by the United States Department of the Treasury on March 20, had allowed some Iranian oil stored at sea to enter global markets. Around 140 million barrels were reportedly cleared under the temporary measure.
Officials said the waiver was originally introduced to ease pressure on global energy supply during the war, but it will now be allowed to end as scheduled.
Stronger Enforcement Expected
US officials said that after the waiver expires, Washington will have wider authority to target buyers of Iranian oil through sanctions.
They warned that companies or countries involved in purchasing Iranian oil could face secondary sanctions.
Authorities also said that any attempt to hide oil trade activities through third parties could trigger additional penalties.
Political Pressure Behind the Decision
The move comes after criticism from lawmakers in the US who questioned the temporary easing of sanctions on Iran and Russia during ongoing global conflicts.
Officials say the policy shift reflects a tougher stance as tensions remain high between the US and Iran.
Energy Market Impact Unclear
Analysts say the decision could affect global oil supply, although the full market impact will depend on how strictly the sanctions are enforced.
For now, traders are watching closely as the April 19 deadline approaches and uncertainty grows over future energy flows from the region.
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