US sanctions on Chinese oil refinery: ‘Economic fury’: US imposes sanctions on Chinese independent oil refinery and 40 shipping companies, tightening pressure on Iranian oil trade – The

The move, announced on Friday, targets what Washington describes as a large-scale “shadow network” used to transport Iranian crude to global markets.This comes amid already rising tensions over the ongoing Iranian conflict and fragile ceasefire arrangements in the region.

Targeting China’s refinery and shipping network

The US Treasury Department identified an independent China-based refinery, along with dozens of ships and shipping operators, as part of the latest sanctions package.The refinery, described as a major buyer of Iranian crude, is among several “small” refineries that process discounted oil and operate with limited exposure to the US financial system.

Treasury Secretary Scott Besent said these measures were part of a broader effort to restrict Iran’s oil income. He said, according to what Reuters reported: “The Treasury will continue to restrict the network of ships, intermediaries, and buyers that Iran relies on to transport its oil to global markets.”

“Financial strangulation” strategy.

The sanctions are part of Washington’s broader “maximum pressure” campaign aimed at cutting off Iranian energy exports, which US officials say funds regional militancy and destabilizing activities, according to a US government statement.The administration described the action as a “critical” step to disrupt Iran’s oil trade and limit revenue streams that support its regional operations.“The United States will intensify economic pressure on Iran and the international network that supports its illicit energy trade as part of economic anger,” the statement read.

China responds, and trade tensions come to the fore

China criticized this move, calling on Washington to stop using sanctions as a political tool.Its embassy in Washington said normal trade should not be disrupted and accused the United States of “abusing” unilateral sanctions.Beijing also said such measures risk politicizing global energy trade and hurting legitimate business activity.

Wider pressure on Iranian oil exports

The sanctions also target nearly 40 shipping companies and ships involved in transporting Iranian crude, further tightening restrictions on what US officials describe as Iran’s “illicit oil network.”China remains the largest buyer of Iranian oil, accounting for more than 80% of exports, according to data reported by Reuters from energy analysis companies.Previous sanctions have already pushed refiners to rely on alternative trade routes and opaque transactions, with some reportedly paying premiums for Iranian crude due to variable execution risks.The move comes as Washington and Tehran prepare for another round of discussions amid ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where maritime turmoil has already affected global energy flows.