Report: U.S. to Allow Iran to Immediately Resume Oil Exports

On June 16, The Wall Street Journal reported that, according to informed sources, the United States will allow Iran to immediately resume oil and fuel exports as part of an agreement that provides Tehran with an economic incentive to de-escalate tensions. The provisions regarding the exemption from oil sales sanctions will take effect immediately after the agreement is signed this week. Additionally, necessary services that support oil sales, such as banking, transportation, and insurance, will also be exempted to ensure that related transactions can proceed smoothly. The 'United Against Nuclear Iran' (UANI) stated that a supertanker loaded with Iranian crude oil has departed from Chabahar Port, crossing the U.S. blockade, and left the Gulf of Oman on Tuesday while activating its ship tracking system. This marks the first occurrence of such a situation since the U.S. implemented a maritime blockade in April of this year. A senior U.S. official stated on Tuesday that while Iran will receive initial sanctions relief for oil sales, the long-term and sustained easing of sanctions will depend on Iran's compliance with U.S. demands, including issues related to the Strait and its nuclear program. The official added that Iran will not immediately gain access to billions of dollars frozen overseas.