Since last July, despite the U.S. maritime blockade, Iran has succeeded in exporting small amounts of liquefied gas and jet fuel. Maritime data shows that Tehran has recently concealed its shipments among the increasing volume of ship-to-ship transfers from other Gulf producers near Oman.
Details of Iranian Exports
This export and its operational methods are reported for the first time. Although Iran's current export levels are low compared to the past, these shipments indicate Iran's success in evading a blockade that has halted the country's crude oil exports. Analyses by U.S. anti-nuclear advocacy groups indicate that at least eight tankers carrying Iranian liquefied gas have left the Gulf of Oman since mid-July.
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Additionally, a tanker carrying Iranian jet fuel reached mid-Mamar in September, which has been confirmed based on satellite images and analyses by maritime intelligence groups. Six of the eight liquefied gas and jet fuel tankers are under U.S. sanctions for transporting Iranian oil and petrochemical products.
Export Challenges and International Responses
Analysts point out that Iranian shipments are more a result of opportunism rather than indicating a new trend in Iran's efforts to export oil and petrochemicals via smaller vessels. Most of these shipments have been sent to the eastern port of Malaysia for further transfers, likely to be moved to China.
The Iranian government has not responded to requests for comment on this matter. The military government ruling mid-Mamar has also not responded to requests regarding the reception of Iranian jet fuel. Meanwhile, the U.S. Central Military Command has stated that its maritime blockade, imposed on April 13 regarding oil related to Iran, remains in effect and is currently following strict regulations.
Concerns about Iran's economic situation are rising, and some analysts believe that these conditions may force Iran to take on greater risks. While Iran's crude oil exports have dropped to zero in September, jet fuel exports are expected to increase due to sanctions pressure on Iran's aviation industry.
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