Iran oil exports hit highest level since reimposition of US sanctions

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
12 Mar 2023 15:33
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The Iranian Oil Minister says Iran exported 83 million more oil barrels since March 21, 2022, compared to the same period last year.

Iranian Oil Minister Javad Owji (AFP)

Iranian Oil Minister Javad Owji revealed on Sunday that Tehran's oil exports have reached their highest level in the past four years amid unilateral sanctions imposed by the United States, Iranian news agency Tasnim reported.

"We exported 83 million more oil barrels since 21st March 2022 compared to the same period last year. This represents 190 million more oil barrels exported compared to the period March 2021 to March 2022," Owji highlighted.

The Iranian official also noted that gas exports increased by 15% in 2022-23 compared to the previous Iranian year.

On Thursday the US Department of Treasury placed 39 firms and entities in Iran, Hong Kong, China, Dubai, and elsewhere on its blacklist for allegedly helping Iran sell petrochemicals internationally.

Brian O'Toole, a former US Treasury Department official, considered that the recent sanctions would reduce Iran's ability to keep exporting oil and get paid for it.

Ever since Iran gained complete autonomy following its 1979 revolution, the country has been the target of excruciating sanctions imposed by the West.

Since Washington withdrew in 2018 from the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), it reimposed harsh unilateral sanctions against Tehran and its oil exports and revenues, with only a few countries purchasing Iranian crude.

In early February, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi pointed out that the increase in Iran's oil sales and production are things that anger its enemies.