US Imposes Sanctions on Indian Businessman, Wife Over Alleged Links to Iran's Oil Trade

Soumyajyoti Mandal,Kolkata: The United States has imposed sanctions on four Indian nationals and several companies over allegations of helping Iran circumvent international restrictions on its oil trade through fraudulent maritime registrations and fake certifications.

Among those targeted are Chandigarh-based businessman Suniel Kumar Sharma and his wife, Jaspreet Preeti Shahid. According to the US Department of the Treasury, the couple allegedly operated a network that provided false maritime registrations and certificates to vessels transporting Iranian petroleum, enabling them to evade American sanctions.

The US has also sanctioned two other Indian nationals, Ashwani Kumar Dhiman and Ishwinder Singh, who are alleged to have been associated with the network.

According to the Treasury Department, the couple operated companies and websites offering ship registration and maritime-related services. They allegedly misrepresented themselves as authorised representatives of several countries and issued fraudulent documents to vessels, some of which were reportedly linked to Iran's military and its affiliated organisations.

The action is part of US President Donald Trump's campaign, known as 'Operation Economic Outcast', aimed at restricting Iran's oil revenues and preventing Tehran from using the proceeds to support its military activities.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent issued a stern warning to individuals and businesses allegedly supporting Iran. He said Washington would take action against those continuing to assist the Iranian regime, whether through land, sea or air.

Under the sanctions, the assets and financial interests of the designated individuals and entities falling under US jurisdiction will be frozen. US citizens and companies will also be prohibited from conducting business with them without specific authorisation.

In a separate move, Washington has imposed sanctions on Turkey-based Fugo Ground Services, accusing the company of providing ground-handling and other services to six Iranian airlines already under US sanctions.

The latest action highlights Washington's growing efforts to disrupt the networks allegedly helping Iran maintain its oil exports and international commercial operations despite economic restrictions.