US easing sanctions on Iranian oil despite war

After years of maintaining heavy sanctions on Iran during both terms in office, Trump temporarily lifts sanctions on Iranian oil exports – in the middle of the ongoing war with Iran.

By World Israel News Staff

The United States has moved to temporarily lift sanctions on Iranian oil shipments in an effort to stabilize global energy markets amid soaring prices driven by the ongoing conflict with Iran.

The decision, announced by the US Treasury, allows for the sale of Iranian crude already at sea for a limited period of 30 days. Officials say the measure could release approximately 140 million barrels of oil into global markets, providing much-needed relief as supply disruptions push prices sharply higher.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the move as a “narrowly tailored” step aimed at easing immediate pressure on energy supplies without broadly reopening Iranian oil exports.

The waiver applies only to oil already loaded onto vessels and does not permit new production or expanded trade.

Global oil prices have surged more than 50% in recent weeks, crossing the $100-per-barrel threshold amid disruptions linked to the conflict and instability in key shipping routes.

The Strait of Hormuz — through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes — has been heavily affected, contributing to the tightening of global energy markets.

The move marks the third time in recent weeks that Washington has eased sanctions on oil supplies, following similar measures involving Russian crude.

Analysts say the administration is increasingly concerned about the economic impact of rising fuel costs, particularly on domestic consumers and businesses.

However, the decision has drawn criticism from some lawmakers and analysts, who warn that allowing Iranian oil back onto the market — even temporarily — could provide financial benefits to Tehran during wartime.

Others argue the policy highlights the administration’s limited options for managing the global energy crisis as the conflict intensifies.

Despite the temporary relief, experts caution that the measure may have only a limited effect unless broader disruptions — particularly in the Strait of Hormuz — are resolved.