Iran Denies Halt in Oil Exports Despite US Sanctions, Sales Continue

Iran's Oil Minister Mohsen Fakhrizadeh Najad dismissed claims that the country's oil exports have stopped due to recent US sanctions. Speaking to local media on August 27, 2026, he confirmed that while sales have decreased in recent months, oil exports are ongoing "at this very moment." Najad explained that Iran has been transferring oil to locations outside its territorial waters to facilitate continued sales to customers.

This statement comes amid heightened US economic sanctions against Iran, announced by President Donald Trump, who warned that the US would target any international entities aiding Iran's oil trade. Despite these threats, the US Treasury Secretary indicated that secondary sanctions against those still trading with Iran have been delayed to avoid severe global economic repercussions.

Najad's remarks contradict assertions by Iran's Central Bank governor that oil sales have effectively ceased. The Iranian minister expressed surprise at such claims and emphasized that deliveries to clients continue. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between Iran and the US over Tehran's oil exports and the international community's response to US sanctions.

The US administration has yet to fully implement its broader sanctions strategy, awaiting a more opportune moment to impose secondary sanctions without destabilizing the global economy. Meanwhile, Iran maintains its position that oil exports persist despite Washington's efforts to isolate the country economically.