US sanctions target an alleged disguise for Iranian oil ships
WASHINGTON — The United States has sanctioned an India-based network accused of issuing false ship registrations and certificates to keep Iranian oil tankers operating, alongside a Turkish company accused of servicing sanctioned Iranian airlines. The measures target businesses Washington says provide the paperwork and operational support needed to circumvent restrictions on Iran’s trade.
The maritime action centres on Suniel Kumar Sharma and his wife, Jaspreet Preeti Shahid, who are based in Chandigarh. Treasury also designated two Indian business executives and nine associated entities, alleging that the network supplied false flags and certifications to vessels transporting Iranian petroleum, including ships operating for Iran’s military and allied groups.
According to Treasury, the network created websites purporting to represent national maritime authorities without their permission. Countries whose identities were allegedly used include Guyana, Eswatini and Laos. Such documentation can give a vessel the appearance of legitimate registration while concealing its lack of authorisation to sail under a country’s flag.
The Southern African connection includes Singapore-based Eswatini Maritime Affairs and International Ship Registry. Treasury alleges that the company continued providing flagging services to Iranian oil carriers despite being publicly disavowed by Eswatini’s authorities. The allegation concerns misuse of the country’s identity, rather than an accusation that its government authorised the operation.
Separately, Turkish company Fugo Ground Services was sanctioned over services supplied to Iranian airlines. Treasury said it began serving several carriers after their September designation, extending its enforcement effort to companies supporting flight operations outside Iran.
The designations block property under US jurisdiction and generally prohibit transactions involving the targeted parties by US persons, subject to exemptions or licences. OFAC also issued an industry alert warning of sanctions risks associated with falsely flagged vessels.
The allegations are Washington’s stated grounds for imposing sanctions. No response from Sharma, Shahid or Fugo Ground Services was identified in the reporting reviewed. The measures form part of the Trump administration’s Operation Economic Outcast, which seeks to restrict the revenue and services sustaining Iran’s economy.
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