The US Treasury Department announced new sanctions targeting Iran's shadow fleet. These sanctions aim to reduce Iran's oil exports and its influence in the region. Among the sanctions, an important independent Chinese refinery purchasing Iranian oil was also targeted. Officials stated that this step is intended to limit Iran's geopolitical influence in the Middle East. Increased pressure on Iran's oil exports may lead to changes in the energy and political balances in the region. This move by the US is considered part of efforts to strengthen the international sanctions regime.