US sanctions Iran ‘shadow fleet’ it says fuels violent protest crackdown

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by By News AgenciesJanuary 23, 2026 at 08:24 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

In January 2026, the United States imposed sanctions on nine vessels and related entities that comprise Iran's "shadow fleet." According to the US Treasury Department, this fleet is used by Iran to export oil and generate revenue. US officials stated that the funds generated from these oil sales are used by the Iranian government to suppress its own people and fund destabilizing activities. The sanctions aim to limit Iran's ability to finance its security services, weapons programs, and regional proxies. The US alleges that the Iranian government has stolen tens of millions of dollars and is attempting to move it to foreign banks. The sanctions come amid reports of thousands killed during a crackdown on protests in Iran sparked by economic grievances and evolving into broader anti-government demonstrations.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Tehran 40% Tommy Pigott 50% Department of State 60% Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) 60% Scott Bessent 70% US Treasury 75% United States ×390% Iran ×695%

Keywords

iran 100% protest crackdown 90% us sanctions 90% shadow fleet 80% oil exports 70% human rights 60% repress own people 60% terrorist proxies 50% revenue 50% weapons programs 40%