Despite the West’s harshest sanctions, Iran has managed to keep its oil trade thriving, utilizing a network of covert operations. Through a fleet of tankers that obscure their movements and leveraging eager buyers in Asia, Tehran keeps its economy running while funding anti-Western groups across the Middle East.
In 2023, Iran’s oil exports raked in $53 billion, maintaining similar levels as the previous year. OPEC data shows that oil production in 2024 was the highest since 2018, proving the resilience of Iran’s oil sector. The resurgence of sanctions in 2018, under former U.S. President Donald Trump, has only pushed Iran to become more resourceful, with plans for even tougher measures in the future.
The revelation of Iran’s methods came to light through hacked emails from the Sahara Thunder company, a Tehran-based firm that has facilitated the survival of Iran’s oil exports. This company, once a front for the Iranian government, used a complex web of deceptive strategies to evade sanctions, including falsifying documents, rebranding vessels, and hiding their locations. Emails leaked by the PRANA hacking group shed light on the company’s tactics, with instructions to alter ship names, forge certificates, and steer clear of any ties to Iran.
This global oil trade, built on secrecy and subterfuge, showcases Iran’s ability to sidestep sanctions while continuing to thrive despite international pressure.
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