US Sanctions Law Firm Aiding Iran's Oil Smuggling Networks
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned the law firm Karnakis & Karnakis, based in Greece and Panama, for allegedly aiding Iranian shipping networks in smuggling oil. The firm is accused of creating shell companies to hide shipowners, with funds reportedly supporting Iran's Quds Force and the Houthis. Separately, a Greek bank is under investigation for possible ties to Iran, with further inquiries sent to six other European banks.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- US Treasury sanctioned Karnakis & Karnakis law firm for aiding Iran's oil smuggling.
- The firm allegedly used shell companies to hide shipowners and benefit Iran's Quds Force.
- Sanctions aim to pressure Iran by targeting financial support networks.
- A Greek bank is under investigation for potential ties to Iran.
- Six other European banks are being questioned about their Iran connections.
The U.S. Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on the law firm Karnakis & Karnakis, which operates in Greece and Panama, accusing it of providing legal assistance for years to Iranian shipping networks. According to the U.S. Treasury, the firm established shell companies to conceal the identities of shipowners involved in transporting millions of barrels of oil, with proceeds allegedly benefiting Iran's Quds Force and the Houthis in Yemen.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant issued a stern warning to entities supporting the Iranian regime, stating that the United States will act against anyone involved in financially supporting Iran, whether through illicit maritime oil transfers or through law firms facilitating such activities. The sanctions are part of ongoing U.S. pressure on Iran, which includes blockades on Iranian ports and sanctions on shipping networks.
In parallel, the U.S. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network has opened an administrative investigation into a Greek bank suspected of potential ties to Iran. Additionally, requests for information have been sent to six other European banks regarding their connections with Iranian financial institutions under U.S. sanctions. The names of these banks were not disclosed.
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