US vows to prosecute all buyers of sanctioned Iranian oil

The United States has pledged to take legal action against any parties involved in the trade of sanctioned Iranian oil, underscoring a hardening stance on enforcement.

Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche said the Department of Justice would pursue prosecutions against both buyers and sellers engaged in such transactions.

The Department of Justice will vigorously prosecute anyone who buys or sells sanctioned Iranian oil.@TheJusticeDept fully supports our Commander in Chief @POTUS and our military. https://t.co/ncwnn039AV

— Acting AG Todd Blanche (@DAGToddBlanche) April 12, 2026

“The Department of Justice will vigorously prosecute anyone who buys or sells sanctioned Iranian oil,” Blanche wrote on X.

According to the statement, enforcement efforts will apply broadly to any entity participating in the trade of Iranian oil subject to US sanctions, regardless of their role in the transaction.

The announcement comes amid renewed pressure from Donald Trump, who earlier outlined plans to impose a “full maritime blockade” on Iran. The proposed measures are expected to mirror actions previously taken against Venezuela late last year.

By Vafa Guliyeva