Mr. Sanctions

Category: Iran

  • August 12, 2026: OFAC Settles with Rice Lake Weighing Systems for Iran Sanctions Violations

    What Happened

    Rice Lake Weighing Systems, a Wisconsin company that makes and sells scales and other weighing equipment, has agreed to pay $60,764 to resolve eight apparent violations of U.S. sanctions on Iran. The violations trace back to Rice Lake’s Italian subsidiary, Dini Argeo, which sold weighing equipment to a distributor in the United Arab Emirates while knowing the equipment was ultimately headed to Iran.

    In November 2016, Rice Lake bought Dini Argeo S.r.l., an Italian manufacturer of weighing equipment. Before the acquisition, Dini had an existing business relationship with Pand Weighing Control (“Pandtec”), an Iranian weighing systems company, and it kept selling to Pandtec afterward. That was permitted at the time under General License H, which let foreign companies owned by U.S. persons do business with Iran subject to certain conditions.

    That changed in 2018. After the United States withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal in May, OFAC revoked General License H that June, though it allowed a short wind-down period running through early November. Once that period ended, Dini – as a company owned by a U.S. parent – was barred from selling to Iran, whether directly or indirectly.

    Rice Lake did notify Dini of the change, in an email sent that August by its Import Export Coordinator. The message, written only in English, warned that dealings with Iran or Iranian citizens were now off-limits and quoted directly from the sanctions regulations. But Rice Lake stopped there: it offered no further explanation or translation, and OFAC found no evidence that the company checked whether Dini’s staff actually understood the new rules or took steps to monitor compliance with them.

    Dini did stop selling directly to Iranian customers. Its staff, however, don’t appear to have understood that selling to Iran indirectly, through a middleman, was just as prohibited. Between June 2019 and November 2021, Dini filled eight orders – worth roughly $121,527 combined – for a UAE-based distributor of weighing equipment, knowing the distributor would resell the goods into Iran.

    The sales paperwork never named Pandtec as the ultimate buyer, but the signs were hard to miss. On at least five occasions in 2019 and 2020, a Pandtec employee emailed Dini staff with product and technical questions, and every one of those emails carried a signature block that referenced Iran. The UAE distributor itself eventually confirmed that the goods were bound for Pandtec. Given Dini’s prior direct relationship with the company, OFAC concluded that Dini knew, or had reason to know, exactly where its products were ending up.

    The scheme surfaced in late 2021, when Rice Lake received a tip that its products were showing up in Iran. The company launched an investigation, quickly traced the diversion to Dini’s sales through the UAE distributor, and ordered Dini to cut off that distributor entirely. Rice Lake then reported the violations to OFAC on its own initiative and began strengthening its compliance program.

    Legally, OFAC pinned the violations on Section 560.215(a) of the Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations (ITSR), which extends Iran-related trade prohibitions to foreign entities owned or controlled by a U.S. person. Because Dini knowingly conducted trade with a person tied to Iran – conduct that would be barred under the ITSR’s export and trade-related-transaction provisions (Sections 560.204(a) and 560.206(a)(2)) if done by a U.S. person directly – each of the eight shipments counted as a separate apparent violation.

    The Penalty

    OFAC treated this as a single non-egregious case and credited Rice Lake for voluntarily disclosing the violations – both determinations shaped how the penalty was calculated.

    Under OFAC’s Economic Sanctions Enforcement Guidelines (31 C.F.R. Part 501, Appendix A), a non-egregious, voluntarily self-disclosed case starts with a base penalty equal to half the total transaction value involved. Applied to the $121,527 in combined value across the eight orders, that formula produced a base penalty – and the final settlement amount – of $60,764. All eight violations were treated together as a single non-egregious case rather than split by type, so there’s no further breakdown to report beyond that aggregate figure.

    From there, OFAC weighed the case against its General Factors for aggravating and mitigating circumstances.

    Aggravating factors

    • Dini kept selling indirectly to Iran even though it should have recognized that was just as prohibited as selling directly, and Rice Lake never explained to its subsidiary why indirect sales carried the same risk.
      • General Factor A, Willful or Reckless Violation of Law: OFAC found this reflected reckless disregard for U.S. sanctions requirements – a failure to exercise even a minimal degree of caution once the direct-sales ban was already known.
    • Dini knew, or had reason to know, that its products were ending up in Iran, even if it mistakenly believed the sales were permitted.
      • General Factor B, Awareness of Conduct at Issue: this is the “reason to know” standard – Dini had enough information in front of it, including the Pandtec emails and the signature blocks that referenced Iran, to know where its goods were headed.
    • The equipment sold is the kind ordinary commercial businesses use, so the sales likely supported everyday economic activity in Iran, and they continued for more than two years.
      • General Factor C, Harm to Sanctions Program Objectives: this factor looks at both the economic benefit a transaction confers on a sanctioned country and how long the conduct continued, and both were present here.

    Mitigating factors

    • Neither Rice Lake nor Dini had faced an OFAC enforcement action in the five years before the earliest of these transactions.
      • General Factor D, Individual Characteristics: OFAC treats a clean sanctions history over that five-year window as grounds for a “first violation” reduction.
    • The transactions at issue were a very small share of either company’s overall sales during the relevant period.
      • General Factor D, Individual Characteristics: this factor also weighs the volume of apparent violations against a company’s total transaction volume, and here the violations were a small fraction of business.
    • Rice Lake acted quickly once it learned of the problem. It hired outside sanctions counsel and ran a thorough investigation, including a check for other possible violations. It then strengthened its compliance program on three fronts: training for subsidiary employees, vetting of end distributors, and reexport control warnings added to its commercial invoices.
      • General Factor F, Remedial Response: this factor rewards how fast and how thoroughly a company responds once a violation surfaces, and Rice Lake’s response touched every area OFAC looks at – stopping the conduct, investigating fully, and fixing the underlying gaps.
    • Rice Lake cooperated fully with OFAC’s investigation, responding promptly to inquiries and document requests and agreeing to toll the statute of limitations while the case was under review.
      • General Factor G, Cooperation with OFAC: prompt responsiveness and a willingness to toll the statute of limitations are both cooperation factors OFAC credits favorably.

    What are the Takeaways?

    This case is a reminder of the sanctions exposure U.S. companies carry for their foreign subsidiaries and affiliates. The Iran program is especially strict on this point: foreign entities owned or controlled by a U.S. person have to comply almost as fully as the U.S. parent itself.

    That exposure is separate from the liability foreign companies can face under other rules that apply to non-U.S. persons directly, such as causing a U.S. person to violate sanctions. Here, the risk ran through ownership rather than through any direct U.S. nexus.

    U.S. companies need to make sure any foreign subsidiaries they own or control actually understand, and fully comply with, the sanctions rules that apply to them. A subsidiary’s compliance failure becomes the parent’s liability. And as this case shows, that risk includes goods flowing back into Iran through the subsidiary’s own sales channels.

    The fix starts with effective, risk-based controls at the subsidiary level. That means training and guidance for everyone who touches the relevant transactions, not just management. Misunderstandings at the staff level can create liability just as easily as decisions made higher up, and enforcement is more likely where a company hasn’t taken reasonable steps to prevent them.

    Training should be tailored to the subsidiary’s actual environment, accounting for things like local language and business customs, rather than a one-size-fits-all policy translated, or not translated, from headquarters.

    Oversight controls matter too. Centralized monitoring and regular testing and auditing give a company the chance to catch weaknesses before they turn into violations, and those controls should be calibrated to a given entity’s specific risk profile. Companies with counterparties in jurisdictions known for diversion risk, the UAE among them, should pay particular attention to the danger of indirect dealings with sanctioned parties.

    Finally, sanctions programs shift, sometimes quickly, and a company needs to keep pace with those changes rather than treat a compliance framework as something it can set once and leave alone.

    OFAC ties this discussion to Treasury’s March 2024 Tri-Seal Compliance Note on foreign-based persons’ sanctions obligations, along with OFAC FAQs 11 and 644.

    Other resources

    OFAC’s 2019 publication, A Framework for OFAC Compliance Commitments, lays out the agency’s view of what belongs in an effective sanctions compliance program, along with an appendix on the common root causes behind apparent violations.

    For the mechanics of the civil penalties process itself, the relevant sources are the regulations for each sanctions program, the Reporting, Procedures, and Penalties Regulations at 31 C.F.R. Part 501, and the Enforcement Guidelines discussed above. OFAC keeps these references, along with its recent civil penalties and enforcement actions, on its website.

    Separately, Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network runs a whistleblower program covering OFAC sanctions violations as well as violations of IEEPA, the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act, the Trading with the Enemy Act, and the Bank Secrecy Act. Whistleblowers, whether based in the U.S. or abroad, may be eligible for an award if their information leads to a successful enforcement action with penalties over $1,000,000, across any commercial sector.

    and the source document:

    20260812_rice_lakeDownload

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  • August 7, 2026: OFAC Update, Part 2: Amended Iran-related Frequently Asked Question

    Today, OFAC amended FAQ 1257:

    1257. Are non-U.S. persons exposed to sanctions for dealing with digital asset exchanges designated pursuant to Executive Order 13902, “Imposing Sanctions with Respect to Additional Sectors of Iran” (E.O. 13902)?

    Answer

    Yes. OFAC’s designation of Nobitex, Wallex, Bitpin, Ramzinex, Aban Tether, or any digital asset exchange pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13902 for operating in the Iranian financial sector means that foreign financial institutions and other non-U.S. persons who transact with these exchanges may also face sanctions under E.O. 13902 or other Iran-related authorities. For example, pursuant to E.O. 13902, OFAC has authority to:

    1. Designate persons that have materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of any digital asset exchange designated pursuant to E.O. 13902; or
    2. Prohibit or impose strict conditions on correspondent account or payable-through account opening or maintenance by foreign financial institutions that have knowingly conducted or facilitated any significant financial transaction for or on behalf of any digital asset exchange designated pursuant to E.O. 13902.

    Foreign financial institutions may be exposed to statutory sanctions for engaging in significant financial transactions with any designated Iranian financial institutions, including Nobitex, Wallex, Bitpin, Ramzinex, and Aban Tether, pursuant to the National Defense Authorization Act of Fiscal Year 2012. Please see FAQ 174 for more information.

    For more information on Iranian digital asset exchanges being blocked under OFAC sanctions, please see FAQ 1250.

    Date Updated: August 07, 2026

    Date Released

    June 2, 2026

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  • August 7, 2026: OFAC Update, Part 1: removals from narcotics program, additions to Iran and counter-terror sanctions

    Counter Terrorism and Iran-related Designations; Counter Narcotics Designations Removals; Issuance of Amended Iran-related Frequently Asked Question

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Sanctions Crypto Exchanges Funding Iran’s IRGC and Enabling Illicit Finance

    State Press Release: Targeting Digital Asset Exchanges Fueling the Iranian Regime

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Dismantles Iranian Regime’s Global Clandestine Currency Networks

    State Press Release: Severing Iran’s Illicit Cash Pipeline

    Additions:

    The following individuals have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: [IRAN-EO13902]  Executive Order 13902

    GHASEMPOUR, Saeed

    • AKA: GHASEMPUR, Sa’id
    • Address: Iran
    • DOB: 10 Feb 1980
    • POB: Babol, Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • National ID No.: 2060455065 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: BANK-E SHAHR

    Supplemental Information: Treasury describes Ghasempour as a Shahr Bank employee who worked closely with FSAQ and Alps International and coordinated with Russia’s sanctioned VTB Bank on currency conversions. He is designated for having acted on behalf of Shahr Bank.

    HENDI, Amir

    • Address: Iran
    • DOB: 05 Nov 1982
    • POB: Tehran, Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • National ID No.: 0074773585 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: TITAN EXCHANGE

    Supplemental Information: Treasury’s press release describes Hendi as an IT specialist who provided infrastructure support to Titan Exchange; the accompanying designation rationale cites his having acted on behalf of FSAQ rather than Titan Exchange directly.

    MOHAMMAD, Peivand

    • AKA: MOHAMMAD, Peyvand
    • Address: Iran
    • DOB: 21 Jan 1991
    • POB: Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • National ID No.: 0013132229 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: FARAB SOROUSH AFAGH QESHM COMPANY

    Supplemental Information: Treasury identifies Mohammad as an FSAQ employee who, along with Shima Sharifi, coordinates invoices and payments enabling FSAQ’s sanctions evasion activities. He is designated for having acted on behalf of FSAQ.

    SHARIFI, Shima

    • Address: Iran
    • DOB: 28 Jun 1992
    • POB: Tehran, Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Female
    • National ID No.: 0014985241 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Treasury identifies Sharifi, alongside Peivand Mohammad, as an FSAQ employee who coordinates invoices and payments enabling FSAQ’s sanctions evasion activities. Unlike Mohammad, Ghasempour, and Hendi, her SDN entry carries no Linked To party; Treasury’s designation basis for her is operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy rather than acting on behalf of a specific party.

    OFAC Programs:

    • [SDGT]  Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594
    • [IRGC]  Iranian Financial Sanctions Regulations, 31 CFR Part 561

    KAYVANPOUR, Siavash

    • AKA:
      • “HASHEM, Siavash”
      • “KAIVANPOUR, Siavash”
      • “KIWAN PORT, Siyawesh”
    • Address: Kish, Iran; Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • DOB: 12 Jul 1979
    • POB: Iran
    • Nationality: Iran; alt. Dominica; alt. Afghanistan
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • Digital Currency Address – XBT: 15Zt2mKuQ5Qy6DEXfDcbtsEVneoGQQXrS4; alt. 1BUXxhcwzFukm9CUxnhag85sSXDkMRbXse
    • Digital Currency Address – ETH: 0x8d79c73daae8630c88de372ba8f57592fa987607
    • Secondary Sanctions Risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Digital Currency Address – TRX: TPgxjjB6AJeMSQFngbUM6dMMxPHa9GEtYa
    • Passport: RA003752 (Dominica)
    • National ID No.: 784-1979-5841714-5 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Treasury describes Kayvanpour as Iranian-born with additional citizenship from Dominica and Afghanistan, residing in the UAE and operating a multi-jurisdiction network of digital-currency companies. IRGC-linked digital currency addresses reportedly sent the equivalent of over $1 million to Shelbit Exchange addresses, with more than $2 million transferred back to IRGC addresses; addresses controlled by Kayvanpour separately sent over $2 million to the previously designated Nobitex exchange. He is designated under E.O. 13224, as amended, for materially assisting the IRGC and Nobitex. Treasury also ties the Shelbit platform to a Persian-language online gambling network run by two Iranian influencers — convicted of illegal gambling in Iran in 2023 but, per Treasury, still operating with access to Iran’s Central Bank-regulated payment system — through which tens of millions of dollars were laundered.

    The following entities have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: [IRAN-EO13902]  Executive Order 13902

    ABAN TETHER EXCHANGE

    • AKA:
      • ABAN TABADEL ARSABARAN
      • ABANTETHER
    • Address: Ground Floor, No. 8, Gozar Merdad Alley, Qods Town (West), Tehran 1465663166, Iran
    • Website: abantether.com
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Organization Established Date: 26 Aug 2020
    • Organization Type: Financial and Insurance Activities
    • National ID No.: 14009392670 (Iran)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury describes Aban Tether as an Iran-based digital asset exchange that has processed millions of dollars in transactions involving other previously designated Iranian exchanges, including Nobitex, Wallex, Bitpin, and Ramzinex. It is designated for operating in Iran’s financial sector.

    ALPS INTERNATIONAL L.L.C-FZ

    • Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 20 Dec 2022
    • License: 2205337.01 (United Arab Emirates); alt. DE7365 (United Arab Emirates)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury describes Alps International as executing payments on behalf of FSAQ, generating invoices on the letterhead of whichever shell company is chosen to receive funds and coordinating payments through that shell’s bank accounts; in 2026 it reportedly enabled hundreds of millions of dollars in multi-currency transactions. It is designated for operating in Iran’s financial sector.

    AYDENIZ GENERAL TRADING L.L.C

    • Address: Office 1205, Riggat Al Buteen, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 18 Jul 2023
    • License: 1210220 (United Arab Emirates); alt. CH5145 (United Arab Emirates)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury identifies Aydeniz General Trading as a Dubai-based Iranian front company used to facilitate transactions with Iranian exchange houses, including Sadaf Exchange, which it ties to Iran’s military shadow-banking apparatus. It is designated for operating in Iran’s financial sector.

    BLUE DASH GENERAL TRADING COMPANY LIMITED

    • Address: Unit 32, 3/F, Block A, The K-Star, Manning Industrial Building 118, How Ming St, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
    • Organization Established Date: 31 Jul 2019
    • Company Number: 2858512 (Hong Kong)
    • Business Registration Number: 71017662 (Hong Kong)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury describes Blue Dash as a Hong Kong front company that has been a recurring counterparty in Iranian shadow-banking activity, facilitating transactions for exchange houses such as Pedram Pirouzan and Amin Exchanges on behalf of sanctions evaders, including the Shamkhani shipping network. It is designated for operating in Iran’s financial sector.

    CAILAFANG PTE. LTD.

    • Address: 60, Paya Lebar Square, 54, Paya Lebar Road, Singapore
    • Organization Established Date: 15 Jan 2024
    • Registration Number: 202402130H (Singapore)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury states Cailafang, a Singapore-based company, has been used by FSAQ and Alps International since late 2025 to enable tens of millions of dollars’ worth of Iranian trade. It is designated for operating in Iran’s financial sector.

    GLEAMING HK TRADING LIMITED

    • Address: Unit 33A, 3/F, The K-Star, Manning Industrial Center, 116-118, How Ming St, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
    • Organization Established Date: 09 Jun 2020
    • Company Number: 2950107 (Hong Kong)
    • Business Registration Number: 71948314 (Hong Kong)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury pairs Gleaming HK Trading with Blue Dash as a recurring Hong Kong front-company counterparty in the same shadow-banking activity, facilitating transactions for Iranian exchange houses on behalf of sanctions evaders including the Shamkhani network. It is designated for operating in Iran’s financial sector.

    OVIEDO OVERSEAS COMPANY LIMITED

    • Address: Room 11, 8/F, On Cheong Factory Building, No. 19 Tai Yip Street, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong, China
    • Organization Established Date: 09 Sep 2025
    • Business Registration Number: 78761549 (Hong Kong)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury states Oviedo Overseas, a Hong Kong company established in September 2025, has been used by FSAQ and Alps International to complete transaction orders worth millions of dollars in mid-2026. It is designated for operating in Iran’s financial sector.

    TITAN EXCHANGE

    • AKA:
      • TITAN ENERGY PETROLEUM PRODUCTS TRADING CO. L.L.C
      • TITAN LAND PETROCHEMICALS TRADING L.L.C
    • Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • License: 1288764 (United Arab Emirates); alt. 820100 (United Arab Emirates); alt. BC2364 (United Arab Emirates); alt. DA7564 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Linked to: BANK-E SHAHR

    Supplemental Information: Treasury describes Titan Exchange as one of two Dubai-based exchange-house fronts relied on by Shahr Bank and its rahbar network, holding tens of millions of dollars on Shahr Bank’s behalf as of early 2026 and closely affiliated with Iranian financier Hossein Ghorbani Zahed, previously sanctioned for supporting the Shamkhani illicit shipping network. Treasury’s crypto-focused release separately describes Amir Hendi as providing IT infrastructure support to Titan Exchange.

    OFAC Program: [SDGT]  Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594

    CRYPTO HOME DMCC

    • Address: DMCC Business Centre, BA 1024, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Digital Currency Address – XBT: 1G1V1b9s9uPsFCNL15ibZk44xsVygKsP2u
    • Digital Currency Address – ETH: 0xbb69e01921b17cd22080968bcc96ba6115da6062
    • Secondary Sanctions Risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 08 Mar 2022
    • Organization Type: Financial and Insurance Activities
    • Digital Currency Address – BNB: bnb136ns6lfw4zs5hg4n85vdthaad7hq5m4gtkgf23
    • Digital Currency Address – TRX: TTVJuXWCusAURrpNShiypauagEH1N4CrxV
    • Commercial Registry Number: DMCC192801 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Company Number: AE0120005822 (United Arab Emirates)
    • License: DMCC-839525 (United Arab Emirates)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury identifies Crypto Home as a UAE company for which Kayvanpour serves as sole manager, designated for being owned or directed by him. The UAE’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority took enforcement action against Crypto Home in January 2025, though it reportedly remained in business.

    NFT HOME DMCC

    • AKA: “NFT HOME DMSC”
    • Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Secondary Sanctions Risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 19 May 2022
    • Organization Type: Wholesale and retail trade
    • Commercial Registry Number: DMCC193420 (United Arab Emirates)
    • License: DMCC-846344 (United Arab Emirates)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury identifies NFT Home as a second UAE company for which Kayvanpour serves as sole manager, designated on the same ownership/control basis as Crypto Home.

    SHELBIT GENERAL TRADING LLC

    • AKA:
      • “SHELBIT”
      • “SHELBIT EXCHANGE”
    • Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Secondary Sanctions Risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Registration Number: 3334083 (United Arab Emirates)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury identifies this entity (referred to in its press release as “General Trading”) as the UAE company operating commercially as Shelbit Exchange. The UAE’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority issued enforcement actions against it in January 2025 and again in July 2026, though it reportedly remained in business; it is designated for being owned or directed by SHPS Shelbit.

    SHELBIT TECHNOLOGIES LTD SPOLKA Z OGRANICZONA ODPOWIEDZIALNOSCIA W LIKWIDACJI

    • AKA:
      • “SHELBIT LTD”
      • “SHELBIT TECHNOLOGIES LTD”
    • Address: 22B 21A Bartycka 00-716, Warsaw, Poland
    • Secondary Sanctions Risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 24 Aug 2023
    • Organization Type: Other monetary intermediation
    • Tax ID No.: 5214033324 (Poland)
    • Business Registration Number: 526184547 (Poland)
    • Registration Number: 0001053647 (Poland)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury identifies this Warsaw-registered entity (in liquidation) as a company owned by Kayvanpour, designated on the same ownership/control basis as Crypto Home and NFT Home.

    SHPS SHELBIT

    • AKA: “SHELBIT EXCHANGE”
    • Address: Tblisi, Georgia
    • Website: http://www.shelbit.com
    • Digital Currency Address – XBT: bc1qjzk63wwatq2f638psymq3qapn00aqgksyx56l3t8eg7zuuccwasq498khf; alt. bc1qz654h5qcqzalv6ltpxsk4ksdcc3e20wkedqntgnarv3a0t2e2p7scr48pl
    • Digital Currency Address – ETH: 0xe05f529f5284d75624eba386cb716928c3b54a2a; alt. 0x6b69e2a7545c166417a80c61a77562052b!a9c5
    • Secondary Sanctions Risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 29 Apr 2025
    • Organization Type: Other business support service activities n.e.c.
    • Digital Currency Address – TRX: TXN3hVukebhyYR31YPCYd7aJAvmUeXu1ab
    • Digital Currency Address – SOL: 6wjqWWra8ombzaw6VHrG5xpQ972jCYF6bbHiFCbWmr4U
    • Registration Number: 400430477 (Georgia)

    Supplemental Information: Treasury identifies SHPS Shelbit as the Republic of Georgia-registered company through which Kayvanpour operates the Shelbit Exchange, which reportedly exchanged well over $1 million in digital assets with IRGC-linked addresses in both directions and laundered tens of millions of dollars for a Persian-language online gambling network.

    Delistings:

    The following deletions have been made to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: [SDNT]  Narcotics Trafficking Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 536

    SATIZABAL RENGIFO, Mario German (a.k.a. “PELO DE COBRE”), Colombia; DOB 04 Mar 1970; POB Buga, Valle, Colombia; Cedula No. 14892890 (Colombia) (individual).

    “PELO DE COBRE” (a.k.a. SATIZABAL RENGIFO, Mario German), Colombia; DOB 04 Mar 1970; POB Buga, Valle, Colombia; Cedula No. 14892890 (Colombia) (individual).

    OFAC Program: [SDNTK]  Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 598

    AYALA BARRERA, Rubi Yiceth; DOB 13 Feb 1982; Cedula No. 52784570 (Colombia) (individual) (Linked To: HERJEZ LTDA.).

    ZAZUETA GODOY, Heriberto (a.k.a. “CAPI BETO”), Jose Aguilar Barraza 328, Al Poniente de la Colonia Jorge Almeda, Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico; Av. Naciones Unidas # 5759, Casa 34, Col. Parque Regency, Zapopan, Jalisco 44110, Mexico; DOB 03 Feb 1960; POB Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico; C.U.R.P. ZAGH600203HSLZDR07 (Mexico) (individual) (Linked To: PRODUCCION PESQUERA DONA MARIELA, S.A. DE C.V.; Linked To: TAIPEN, S.A. DE C.V.; Linked To: COMERCIALIZADORA Y FRIGORIFICOS DE LA PERLA DEL PACIFICO, S.A. DE C.V.).

    “CAPI BETO” (a.k.a. ZAZUETA GODOY, Heriberto), Jose Aguilar Barraza 328, Al Poniente de la Colonia Jorge Almeda, Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico; Av. Naciones Unidas # 5759, Casa 34, Col. Parque Regency, Zapopan, Jalisco 44110, Mexico; DOB 03 Feb 1960; POB Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico; C.U.R.P. ZAGH600203HSLZDR07 (Mexico) (individual) (Linked To: PRODUCCION PESQUERA DONA MARIELA, S.A. DE C.V.; Linked To: TAIPEN, S.A. DE C.V.; Linked To: COMERCIALIZADORA Y FRIGORIFICOS DE LA PERLA DEL PACIFICO, S.A. DE C.V.).

    ZAZUETA GOMEZ, Leopoldo; DOB 04 Feb 1940; POB San Ignacio, Sinaloa, Mexico; C.U.R.P. ZAGL400204HSLZMP06 (Mexico) (individual) (Linked To: PRODUCCION PESQUERA DONA MARIELA, S.A. DE C.V.).

    ROMERO ZEVADA, Demetrio, Nogalitos No. 17, Quila, Sinaloa, Mexico; DOB 09 Apr 1973; POB Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico; C.U.R.P. ROZD730409HSLMVM09 (Mexico) (individual) (Linked To: COMERCIALIZADORA Y FRIGORIFICOS DE LA PERLA DEL PACIFICO, S.A. DE C.V.; Linked To: PRODUCCION PESQUERA DONA MARIELA, S.A. DE C.V.).

    PRODUCCION PESQUERA DONA MARIELA, S.A. DE C.V., Avenida Puerto Mazatlan 6, Colonia Parque Industrial Alfredo V Bonfil, Mazatlan, Sinaloa CP 82050, Mexico; R.F.C. PPD0103129Q2 (Mexico); Folio Mercantil No. 9974-2 (Mexico).

    TAIPEN, S.A. DE C.V. (a.k.a. “TAI PEN”), Av. Juan Palomar y Arias # 569, Col. Jardines Universidad, Zapopan, Jalisco 45110, Mexico; Folio Mercantil No. 33288-1 (Mexico).

    “TAI PEN” (a.k.a. TAIPEN, S.A. DE C.V.), Av. Juan Palomar y Arias # 569, Col. Jardines Universidad, Zapopan, Jalisco 45110, Mexico; Folio Mercantil No. 33288-1 (Mexico).

    COMERCIALIZADORA Y FRIGORIFICOS DE LA PERLA DEL PACIFICO, S.A. DE C.V., Puerto de Mazatlan 6 D, Parque Industrial Alfredo V. Bonfil, Mazatlan, Sinaloa 82050, Mexico; R.F.C. CFP001109UM7 (Mexico).

    Sources:

    Claude’s notes worth noting:

    Two source-fidelity issues I didn’t paper over:

    • One of SHPS Shelbit’s alt. ETH addresses (ending ...052b!a9c5) has what looks like an OCR artifact character in the source PDF — I transcribed it as-is rather than guessing at the correct hex digit. Worth checking against OFAC’s official SDN XML/CSV export before anyone screens against it.
    • I dropped the Arabic-script and Polish-diacritic name parentheticals throughout (e.g., on Ghasempour, Hendi, Sharifi, Aban Tether, Crypto Home, NFT Home, Shelbit General Trading, Shelbit Technologies) rather than risk transcribing garbled RTL extraction incorrectly. The English/Latin primary names and standard a.k.a. aliases are all intact.

    How I split the two designation networks: the update bundles two distinct Iran-related actions — the Shahr Bank/FSAQ/Alps International currency-exchange-house network (Treasury’s “Global Clandestine Currency Networks” release + State’s “Severing Iran’s Illicit Cash Pipeline”) and the Kayvanpour/Shelbit crypto-exchange network (Treasury’s “Crypto Exchanges” release + State’s “Targeting Digital Asset Exchanges”). These split almost perfectly along program-tag lines (IRAN-EO13902 vs. SDGT/IRGC), with Aban Tether Exchange as the one exception — it’s tagged IRAN-EO13902 like the currency-network entities but is substantively part of the crypto story, so its supplemental info draws from the crypto press release even though it’s grouped under the IRAN-EO13902 heading.

    Excluded per scope rules: the co-issued amended FAQ 1257, and Basheer Al-Shabbani (discussed in Treasury’s currency-network release but not actually a new listing in today’s SDN update — he was already processed in the August 5 post).

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    , , , ,

  • August 7, 2026: OFAC is last to the party?

    Just got this:

    Severing Iran’s Illicit Cash Pipeline

    PRESS STATEMENT

    THOMAS “TOMMY” PIGOTT, SPOKESPERSON

    AUGUST 7, 2026

    The United States is taking decisive action to cut the financial lifelines that sustain Iran’s ruling elite. Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury took steps to dismantle a web of currency exchange houses and shell companies that helped Iran secretly move hundreds of millions of dollars through the international financial system. Through these networks, Tehran accessed oil revenue and evaded sanctions designed to curb its destabilizing activities, laundering funds using front companies.

    This action demonstrates the Trump Administration’s continued maximum pressure on Iran by cutting off resources the regime uses to threaten regional stability, support terrorism, and advance its military capabilities. By targeting the banks, exchange houses, and individual facilitators that operate this illicit system, the United States makes clear that those who help Iran evade sanctions will face serious consequences.

    The United States remains committed to working with partners across the region and the world to close every avenue Iran uses to fund its destabilizing activities. As the regime’s economic mismanagement and corruption become increasingly apparent to the Iranian people, actions like today’s further isolate the regime from the international financial system and reinforce that Iran’s continued support for terrorism and regional aggression will carry a steep and lasting cost.

    Today’s action is being taken pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13902, which targets persons operating in Iran’s financial and petroleum sectors, and advances the President’s National Security Presidential Memorandum 2 (NSPM-2), to impose maximum pressure on Iran. This is OFAC’s eighth action in 2026 targeting Iran’s shadow banking apparatus, including Iranian banks and their rahbar front companies, exchange houses and their managers, major financiers, and the Iranian importers and exporters who rely on these financial networks to launder and repatriate revenues. Please see the Department of the Treasury’s press releases.

    but I have not gotten anything from OFAC yet – even checked the Recent Actions page.

    But the press release page already has 2 things with today’s date:

    August 7, 2026

    Treasury Sanctions Crypto Exchanges Funding Iran’s IRGC and Enabling Illicit Finance

    August 7, 2026

    Treasury Dismantles Iranian Regime’s Global Clandestine Currency Networks

    so, stay tuned? I’ll include both Treasury releases when we get the official stuff from OFAC (since my prompt includes the relevant info with the specific designations)

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    , , , , ,

  • July 29, 2026: OFAC adds to Iran sanctions

    Iran-related Designations

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Disrupts Iranian Regime’s Strait of Hormuz Extortion Network

    State Press Release: Countering Iran’s Exploitation of the Strait of Hormuz

    Additions:

    The following entities have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: IRAN-EO13902  Executive Order 13902

    BILLION NEXUS INT’L CO., LIMITED

    • AKA: BILLION NEXUS INT’L CO LTD
    • Address: Unit 60, 3rd Floor, Yau Lee Centre, 45, Hoi Yuen Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
    • Organization Established Date: 22 Jul 2025
    • Identification Number: IMO 0306224
    • Business Registration Number: 78498463 (Hong Kong)

    Supplemental Information: Billion Nexus Int’l Co., Limited, based in Hong Kong, owns and operates the crude oil tanker AL SALMI, which has moved hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian oil to China since 2025. It is one of eight companies designated today for operating in Iran’s petroleum sector, part of a broader campaign that has now covered more than 100 vessels linked to Iran’s shadow fleet since the start of the year.

    BRANCH SAYING INTERNATIONAL TRADING CO LTD

    • Address: Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Road, Ajeltake Island, Majuro 96960, Marshall Islands
    • Organization Established Date: 10 Sep 2025
    • Identification Number: IMO 0359778
    • Business Registration Number: 133779 (Marshall Islands)

    Supplemental Information: Branch Saying International Trading Co Ltd, based in the Marshall Islands, owns the crude oil tanker YEHOPE, which has carried hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian crude to China in 2026. It is designated for operating in Iran’s petroleum sector.

    CONFIDENT APEX LIMITED (Chinese Traditional: 帆起有限公司)

    • AKA: CONFIDENT APEX LTD
    • Address: Room D, 10th Floor, Tower A Billion Centre, 1, Wang Kwong Road, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
    • Organization Established Date: 31 Dec 2024
    • Identification Number: IMO 0123299
    • Business Registration Number: 77537070 (Hong Kong)

    Supplemental Information: Confident Apex Limited, based in Hong Kong, owns and operates the crude oil tanker LILY (also known by the name “DANYA”), which has carried millions of barrels of Iranian oil since 2025. It is designated for operating in Iran’s petroleum sector.

    HORMUZSAFE MARINE SERVICES AUTHORITY

    • AKA: HORMUZ SAFE (Arabic: هرمز سیف)
    • Address: Bandar Abbas, Hormozgan Province, Iran
    • Website: https://hormuzsafe.ir
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Organization Established Date: 2026
    • Organization Type: Financial and Insurance Activities

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury and State, HormuzSafe (also marketed as Hormuz Safe) is an Iranian digital insurance venture developed by Iran’s Ministry of Economy that advertises maritime services – insurance, traffic control, security, and emergency response – to vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. It accepts Bitcoin and other digital-asset payments as part of the regime’s efforts to route around Western sanctions, and was promoted to social media followers by previously sanctioned regime financier Babak Morteza Zanjani. Along with the Persian Gulf Marine Insurance Company, HormuzSafe brokers IRGC-approved policies covering risks – chiefly vessel seizure – that Iran itself largely manufactures, generating revenue for IRGC operations. It is designated for operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy.

    MARINOVA FREIGHT LIMITED

    • Address: Room 310 3/F, Stag Building, 148-150 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong, China
    • Organization Established Date: 26 Mar 2026
    • Identification Number: IMO 0451967
    • Business Registration Number: 80062070 (Hong Kong)

    Supplemental Information: Marinova Freight Limited, based in Hong Kong, owns, operates, and manages the crude oil tanker NATSUMI, which has carried millions of barrels of Iranian crude to China since 2022. It is designated for operating in Iran’s petroleum sector.

    NEVADA SPIRIT COMPANY LIMITED

    • AKA: NEVADA SPIRIT CO LTD
    • Address: Rm 8 15/F Witty Coml Bldg, 1A-1L Tung Choi St, Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
    • Organization Established Date: 05 May 2022
    • Identification Number: IMO 6326461
    • Business Registration Number: 74012178 (Hong Kong)

    Supplemental Information: Nevada Spirit Company Limited, based in Hong Kong, owns and operates the crude oil tanker BREEZE V, which has carried millions of barrels of Iranian oil to China in 2026. It is designated for operating in Iran’s petroleum sector.

    OCEAN TRANQUILITY LIMITED

    • Address: Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Road, Ajeltake Island, Majuro 96960, Marshall Islands
    • Organization Established Date: 18 Feb 2022
    • Identification Number: IMO 6357680
    • Business Registration Number: 113191 (Marshall Islands)

    Supplemental Information: Ocean Tranquility Limited, based in the Marshall Islands, owns, operates, and manages the crude oil tanker NIRETA, which has carried hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian crude to China in 2026. It is designated for operating in Iran’s petroleum sector.

    PERSIAN GULF MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY (Arabic: شركة تأمین الخلیج الفارسي البحري)

    • Address: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Organization Established Date: 2026
    • Organization Type: Financial and Insurance Activities

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury, the Persian Gulf Marine Insurance Company (PGMIC) was established by the Central Insurance of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the country’s primary insurance regulator. PGMIC brokers and issues policies approved by the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), an IRGC-backed body Treasury designated on May 27, 2026 pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for materially supporting the IRGC. PGMIC’s coverage addresses risks – most notably vessel seizure – that are largely of Iran’s own making, generating revenue that helps fund the regime’s terror and corruption. It is designated for operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy.

    QI HANG SHIP MANAGEMENT LIMITED (Chinese Traditional: 啟航船舶管理有限公司)

    • Address:
      • Room D, 16th Floor, China Merchants Tower, 1008, Wanghai Lu, Nanshan Qu, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
      • Rm 30 3/F East Sun Indl Ctr Blk A, 16 Shing Yip St, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
    • Organization Established Date: 29 Jul 2025
    • Identification Number: IMO 0301550
    • Business Registration Number: 78537348 (Hong Kong)

    Supplemental Information: Qi Hang Ship Management Limited, based in China and Hong Kong, owns, operates, and manages the chemical/products tanker WELL SAIL, which has carried hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian petroleum products to the United Arab Emirates in 2026. It is designated for operating in Iran’s petroleum sector.

    VAST MIGHTY LIMITED

    • Address:
      • 12th Floor, Fu Cheong Centre 5-7, Wong Chuk Yeung Street, Fo Tan, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
      • Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Road, Ajeltake Island, Majuro 96960, Marshall Islands
    • Organization Established Date: 30 Sep 2022
    • Alt. Organization Established Date: 06 Jul 2023
    • Identification Number: IMO 0024761
    • Business Registration Number: 120802 (Marshall Islands)
    • Registration Number: 74471259 (Hong Kong)

    Supplemental Information: Vast Mighty Limited, based in Hong Kong and the Marshall Islands, owns, operates, and manages the crude oil tanker CRYSTAL, which has carried millions of barrels of Iranian crude to China in 2026. It is designated for operating in Iran’s petroleum sector.

    The following vessels have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: IRAN-EO13902  Executive Order 13902

    AL SALMI

    • Vessel Type: Crude Oil Tanker
    • Vessel Flag: Unknown
    • Former Vessel Flag: Panama
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2005
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9298296
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: BILLION NEXUS INT’L CO., LIMITED

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury, AL SALMI has transported hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian oil to China since 2025.

    BREEZE V (8P2249)

    • Vessel Type: Crude Oil Tanker
    • Vessel Flag: Barbados
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2003
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9259355
    • MMSI: 314887000
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: NEVADA SPIRIT COMPANY LIMITED

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury, BREEZE V has transported millions of barrels of Iranian oil to China in 2026.

    CRYSTAL (YJRP6)

    • Vessel Type: Crude Oil Tanker
    • Vessel Flag: Vanuatu
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2002
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9223887
    • MMSI: 577706000
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: VAST MIGHTY LIMITED

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury, CRYSTAL has transported millions of barrels of Iranian crude oil to China in 2026.

    LILY (3EVK3)

    • AKA: “DANYA”
    • Vessel Type: Crude Oil Tanker
    • Vessel Flag: Mozambique
    • Former Vessel Flag: Panama
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2005
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9294331
    • MMSI: 353502000
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: CONFIDENT APEX LIMITED

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury, LILY has transported millions of barrels of Iranian oil since 2025.

    NATSUMI (8PTM)

    • Vessel Type: Crude Oil Tanker
    • Vessel Flag: Barbados
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2006
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9331244
    • MMSI: 314231000
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: MARINOVA FREIGHT LIMITED

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury, NATSUMI has transported millions of barrels of Iranian crude oil to China since 2022.

    NIRETA (YJRR9)

    • Vessel Type: Crude Oil Tanker
    • Vessel Flag: Vanuatu
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2003
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9237785
    • MMSI: 577715000
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: OCEAN TRANQUILITY LIMITED

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury, NIRETA has transported hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian crude oil to China in 2026.

    WELL SAIL (V7A4071)

    • Vessel Type: Chemical/Products Tanker
    • Vessel Flag: Marshall Islands
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2007
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9321938
    • MMSI: 538012177
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: QI HANG SHIP MANAGEMENT LIMITED

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury, WELL SAIL has transported hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian petroleum products to the United Arab Emirates in 2026.

    YEHOPE (8PPX)

    • Vessel Type: Crude Oil Tanker
    • Vessel Flag: Barbados
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2003
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9243320
    • MMSI: 314001154
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: BRANCH SAYING INTERNATIONAL TRADING CO LTD

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury, YEHOPE has transported hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian crude oil to China in 2026.

    Sources:

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    , ,

  • July 24, 2026: OFAC Update, Part 1: Iran Designations

    Iran-related Designations; Issuance of Amended Russia-related General License and Frequently Asked Questions; Issuance of Amended Venezuela-related Frequently Asked Question; Publication of Regulatory Amendments

    State Press Release: Sanctioning an Iranian Financial Evasion Network

    Additions:

    The following individuals have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: IRAN-EO13902  Executive Order 13902

    BANI, Solmaz

    • AKA:
      • BANI, Niyoosha
      • BANI, Sara
    • Address: Difc, Damac Park Tower A, Floor 7, No. 706, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • DOB: 11 Feb 1983
    • Nationality: Netherlands
    • Gender: Female
    • Passport: NYH5BKKC4 (Netherlands)
    • Party Type: individual
    • Linked to: ZANJANI, Babak Morteza

    Supplemental Information: Treasury describes Bani as Zanjani’s significant other; she registered websites for his companies and was designated for providing material support to him.

    OIMAKHMADOV, Sukhrob

    • AKA: OYMAKHMADOV, Sukhrob
    • Address: Rudaki 85, Lohuty 4-33, Dushanbe, Tajikistan
    • DOB: 05 Oct 1979
    • POB: Vahdat, Tajikistan
    • Nationality: Tajikistan
    • Gender: Male
    • Passport: 402383646 (Tajikistan) expires 21 Nov 2028
    • Party Type: individual
    • Linked to: ZEDX DMCC

    Supplemental Information: Manager of Zedx DMCC, which Treasury says acted on Zedcex Exchange’s behalf, including with its exchange wallets.

    REZAZADEH, Mehdi

    • AKA:
      • رضازاده مهدی (Arabic script)
      • RIZAZADEH, Mehdi
    • Address: 210 Sharghi Bin Mozaffari V Sajdehi, Tehranpars 9863, Tehran, Iran
    • DOB: 12 Nov 1975
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Gender: Male
    • National ID No.: 0068859341 (Iran)
    • Party Type: individual
    • Linked to: ZEDPAY FINANSAL SISTEM VE HIZMETLERI ANONIM SIRKETI

    Supplemental Information: Chairperson of Zedpay, an Istanbul-based fintech that Treasury says was integrated directly into Zedxion’s trading platform to give it fiat settlement and cross-border payment capability.

    ZANJANI, Bahareh Morteza

    • AKA:
      • بهاره زنجانی مرتضی (Arabic script)
      • ZANJANI, Bahareh Mortaza
    • Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • DOB: 21 Sep 1981
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Gender: Female
    • National ID No.: 0068146681 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Residency Number: 784-1981-2649786-0 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Party Type: individual
    • Linked to: BZ DIAMOND DMCC

    Supplemental Information: Babak Zanjani’s sister. Treasury says she manages BZ Diamond FZCO, a Dubai-based dealer in lab-grown and natural diamonds.

    The following entities have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: IRAN-EO13902  Executive Order 13902

    BZ DIAMOND DMCC

    • AKA: BZ DIAMOND FZCO
    • Address: Unite No. 1H-07-00 Jewelry & Gemplex 1, Plot No. DMCC-PH2-J&GPlexS, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 21 Jan 2022
    • Business Registration Number: DMCC1917588 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Registration Number: DMCC827353 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Linked to: ZEDXION EXCHANGE LTD

    Supplemental Information: A Dubai-based dealer in lab-grown and natural diamonds that Treasury says is managed by Babak Zanjani’s sister, Bahareh Morteza Zanjani.

    DOT ONE VALUE CREATION GROUP

    • AKA:
      • گروه بین المللی توسعه مالی و اقتصادی آوان (Arabic script)
      • A.ONE INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GROUP
      • AVAN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GROUP
      • DOT ONE HOLDING
      • DOTONE
      • ONE GROUP
      • ONE INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GROUP
    • Address:
      • DotOne Tower, Jahan Koodak, Tehran, Iran
      • Ground Floor, No. 33, Africa Street, Kaman Alley, Kavousieh, Tehran, Iran
    • Website: https://one-holding.ir
    • Alt. Website: https://dotone.ir
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Organization Established Date: 17 Nov 2024
    • Organization Type: Activities of holding companies
    • National ID No.: 14013956780 (Iran)
    • Registration Number: 641700 (Iran)
    • Linked to: ZANJANI, Babak Morteza

    Supplemental Information: Also known as DotOne Group, the Iran-based holding company through which Zanjani has, per Treasury, built a portfolio of subsidiaries spanning transportation, gold production, and digital assets.

    DOTONE AIRLINES COMPANY

    • AKA:
      • دات وان ایرلاینز (Arabic script)
      • AVAN AIR
      • AVAN AIRSA AIRLINES COMPANY
      • AVAN IRSA AIRLINES COMPANY
      • DOT ONE AIRLINE COMPANY
    • Address: Iran
    • Website: airlines.dotone.ir
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Organization Established Date: 07 Nov 2025
    • National ID No.: 14014864290 (Iran)
    • Registration Number: 660597 (Iran)
    • Linked to: DOT ONE VALUE CREATION GROUP

    Supplemental Information: Handles the Dot One conglomerate’s airline service operations, per Treasury.

    DOTONE BARTER COMPANY

    • AKA:
      • شرکت تهاتر آوان (Arabic script)
      • AVAN BARTER COMPANY
      • AVAN TAHATOR COMPANY
    • Address: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • National ID No.: 14014100280 (Iran)
    • Registration Number: 644308 (Iran)
    • Linked to: DOT ONE VALUE CREATION GROUP

    Supplemental Information: Handles the Dot One conglomerate’s clearing house services, per Treasury.

    DOTONE GOLD COMPANY

    • AKA:
      • شرکت زرین سیم آوان (Arabic script)
      • TALA GOLD
      • TALA TOKEN
      • ZARRIN SIM AVAN COMPANY
    • Address: Iran
    • Website: talatoken.com
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • National ID No.: 14014200364 (Iran)
    • Registration Number: 646255 (Iran)
    • Linked to: ZANJANI, Babak Morteza

    Supplemental Information: Zanjani’s gold bar minter, producer, and custodian, and the company behind Tala Token, a purportedly gold-backed digital asset. Treasury says significant volumes of Tala Token moved through Zedcex’s infrastructure in early 2025.

    DOTONE RAIL COMPANY

    • AKA:
      • شرکت قطارهای ریل آوان (Arabic script)
      • AVAN RAIL TRAINS COMPANY
    • Address: Iran
    • National ID No.: 14014036380 (Iran)
    • Registration Number: 643252 (Iran)
    • Linked to: DOT ONE VALUE CREATION GROUP

    Supplemental Information: Handles the Dot One conglomerate’s railway construction operations, per Treasury.

    DOTONE TRIP

    Note: The source listing renders this entity’s name as “TRIP DOTONE,” which appears to be an artifact of extracting bidirectional text adjacent to the Arabic-script rendering. Treasury’s press release and the company’s own website consistently use “DotOne Trip,” used here.

    • AKA:
      • شرکت دات وان سفر (Arabic script)
      • AVAN SAFAR COMPANY
      • DOTONE TRAVEL
    • Address: DotOne Tower, Iran
    • Website: dotonetrip.com
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • National ID No.: 14014367155 (Iran)
    • Registration Number: 649885 (Iran)
    • Linked to: DOT ONE VALUE CREATION GROUP

    Supplemental Information: Handles the Dot One conglomerate’s ride-sharing operations, per Treasury.

    ZEDPAY FINANSAL SISTEM VE HIZMETLERI ANONIM SIRKETI

    • AKA:
      • ZEDPAY FİNANSAL SİSTEM VE HİZMETLERİ ANONİM ŞİRKETİ (Turkish script)
      • ZEDPAY
      • ZEDPAY DIJITAL YAZILIM SISTEMLERI ANONIM SIRKETI
      • ZEDPAY FINANCIAL SYSTEM AND SERVICES P.J.S.C.
    • Address: D 142, Floor: 14, No: 12B, Blok: A, Orucreis Area, Tekstilkent Plaza, 34235 Esenler, Istanbul, Turkey
    • Website: www.zedpay.com
    • Organization Established Date: 24 May 2022
    • Organization Type: Computer programming activities
    • Trade License No.: 09971730211 (Turkey)
    • Business Registration Number: 381783 (Turkey)
    • Linked to: ZEDXION EXCHANGE LTD

    Supplemental Information: An Istanbul-based fintech offering digital wallet and cross-border transfer services. Treasury says it was integrated directly into Zedxion’s trading platform to provide fiat settlement and cross-border payment capability the exchange otherwise lacked.

    ZEDX DMCC

    • Address:
      • Unit No. 1509, JBC2, Plot No. JLT-PH2-V1A, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
      • ALMAS-48-CV56, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 13 Jan 2023
    • Business Registration Number: DMCC195753 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Alt. Business Registration Number: DMCC872364 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Linked to: ZEDCEX EXCHANGE LTD

    Supplemental Information: A Dubai-based entity that Treasury says acted on Zedcex Exchange’s behalf, including with respect to its exchange wallets.

    Sources:

    Note: Treasury’s press release, while noted in the source list, was not referenced on OFAC”s Recent Actions page notice

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  • July 14, 2026: State Department Press Release on Iranian sanctions designations

    Iran: Dismantling Shamkhani’s Illicit Shipping Empire

    PRESS STATEMENT

    THOMAS “TOMMY” PIGOTT, SPOKESPERSON

    JULY 14, 2026

    As part of the United States’ effort to increase pressure on the Iranian regime amid their unlawful attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, the United States is acting to disrupt and degrade the illicit shipping and sanctions evasion network of U.S.-designated Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, which serves as a major enabler behind Iran’s oil exports. Today, we are designating more than 50 individuals, entities, and vessels that enable Shamkhani and the Iranian regime to continue profiting while the Iranian people suffer.

    The Shamkhani network relies on a combination of Iranian and foreign nationals and firms to conduct sanctions‑evasion schemes. It also uses offshore shell companies, critical to the network’s ability, to trade sanctioned goods and recover the proceeds of those trades.

    The United States will use all the tools at our disposal to hold the regime accountable for its actions.

    Today’s action is being taken pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13902, which provides authority to the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State, to identify and impose sanctions on key sectors of Iran’s economy. For more information on today’s action, see the Department of the Treasury’s press release.

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  • July 14, 2026: OFAC Update, Part 2: Iran-related General License Z

    Today, OFAC issued another wind-down GL – GL Z (Authorizing Wind Down Activities, Limited Safety and Environmental Transactions, and the Offloading of Cargo Involving Certain Persons or Vessels Blocked on July 14, 2026):

    iran_glzDownload

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    , , ,

  • July 14, 2026: OFAC Update, Part 1: Iran Designations, iran/Counter-terror Designation update

    Iran-related Designations; Iran-related and Counter Terrorism Designation Update; Issuance of Iran-related General License

    Additions:

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Intensifies Pressure on Shamkhani’s Expansive Illicit Shipping Empire

    Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, the target of this action, is the son of Ali Shamkhani, a senior political advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader who was himself sanctioned by the U.S. in 2020. Today’s action brings the total sanctioned under his patronage to more than 200 individuals, entities, and vessels across this and two prior actions (July 2025 and April 2026).

    The following individuals have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: IRAN-EO13902  Executive Order 13902

    DEHKORDI, Asghar Aghili

    • Address: United Arab Emirates
    • DOB: 21 Feb 1976
    • POB: Shahrekord, Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • National ID No.: 4621568566 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Treasury describes Dehkordi as having served in a strategy role for multiple Shamkhani network companies, including the previously sanctioned Milavous Group Ltd.

    GEORGE, Jijin

    • Address: United Arab Emirates
    • DOB: 16 Jan 1994
    • POB: Trivandrum, India
    • Nationality: India
    • Gender: Male
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: George is involved in facilitating the operation of vessels within the Shamkhani fleet and is an employee of the previously sanctioned Teodor Shipping L.L.C.

    KAALUND, Martin Austin

    • AKA: KAALUND, Martin
    • Address: Singapore
    • Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • DOB: 11 Apr 1973
    • POB: Copenhagen, Denmark
    • Nationality: Denmark
    • Gender: Male
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: HOUSE OF SHIPPING INVESTMENT FZCO

    Supplemental Information: Kaalund spent years as an executive of the previously sanctioned Shamkhani shipping oversight company House of Shipping Investment FZCO, most recently as its global chief financial officer, and is a co-founder and manager of Dubai-based Evorit Strategy Consulting LLC-FZ.

    MOGHADAS, Behzad (Arabic: بهزاد مقدس)

    • Address: United Arab Emirates
    • Address: Iran
    • DOB: 27 Jul 1987
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Moghadas is involved in facilitating the operation of vessels within the Shamkhani fleet.

    RAHBAR MADANI, Mohammad Reza

    • Address: Iran
    • DOB: 10 Jun 1973
    • POB: Tehran, Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Alt. Nationality: Dominica
    • Gender: Male
    • Passport: RA020092 (Dominica) expires 29 Apr 2032
    • National ID No.: 0057373078 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Madani, along with Zahed (below), worked as a primary financier for the Shamkhani network, providing exchange house services including access to foreign currency and shell companies based outside Iran; Treasury describes both as essential to the network’s ability to trade in sanctioned goods and recoup proceeds. He is the registered owner of Iran-flagged vessel ERIKA, identified as blocked property below.

    RAKHBARMADANI, Ali (Arabic: علي راخبارماداني)

    • AKA: RAHBARMADANI, Ali
    • Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Address: Russia
    • DOB: 28 Jan 1975
    • POB: Tehran, Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Alt. Nationality: Russia
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • Passport: 516737186 (Russia)
    • Alt. Passport: B97499327 (Iran) expires 29 Feb 2028
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: One of Shamkhani’s closest business associates, Rakhbarmadani is linked to the previously sanctioned Koban Shipping L.L.C., Crios Shipping L.L.C., and Marvise SMC DMCC, and owns Al Kina Commercial Broker LLC (designated today). He was deputy CEO of the previously sanctioned Oriel Group before its designation and effectively operated as Shamkhani’s head of shipping, handling network communications with customers and partners. Treasury states he encouraged the Russian side of the network’s trade to evade the price cap on Russian oil following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    RONCO, Alessandra

    • Address: United Arab Emirates
    • DOB: 1980 to 1981
    • POB: Italy
    • Nationality: Italy
    • Gender: Female
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: EVORIT STRATEGY CONSULTING LLC-FZ

    Supplemental Information: Ronco spent years as an executive of the previously sanctioned House of Shipping Investment FZCO, most recently as its global chief executive officer, and is a co-founder and manager of Evorit Strategy Consulting LLC-FZ (designated today).

    TSERNOSJOV, Maksim

    • Address: United Arab Emirates
    • DOB: 23 Aug 1985
    • Nationality: United Kingdom
    • Gender: Male
    • Passport: 124013929 (United Kingdom)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Treasury identifies Tsernosjov as a senior vessel inspector in Shamkhani’s illicit shipping network.

    VISHAVDEEP, Gautam

    • Address: United Arab Emirates
    • DOB: 27 Jul 1967
    • POB: Ludhiana, India
    • Nationality: India
    • Gender: Male
    • Passport: Z5557980 (India)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Vishavdeep is a manager within the network, facilitating shipments of Iranian oil and coordinating with network partners.

    ZAHED, Hossein Ghorbani

    • AKA: GHORBANIZAHED, Hossein
    • Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • DOB: 13 Oct 1982
    • POB: Tehran, Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Alt. Nationality: Dominica
    • Gender: Male
    • National ID No.: 0075194953 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Zahed, along with Madani, worked as a primary financier for the Shamkhani network. He is the beneficial owner of BVI- and Dubai-based Golden Nest Group Ltd and the director of Dubai-based BSG Management Ltd, both designated today.

    The following entities have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: IRAN-EO13902  Executive Order 13902

    AARE LINES INC.

    • Address: Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Road, Majuro, Ajeltake Island 96960, Marshall Islands
    • Organization Established Date: 17 May 2022
    • Identification Number: IMO 6324125
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Owner and operator of St. Kitts & Nevis-flagged NADIA, identified as blocked property below.

    AL KINA COMMERCIAL BROKER LLC (Arabic: الكينا للوساطة التجارية ش ذ م م)

    • Address: 1909 and 1901 Burj Khalifa, Bur Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 26 Feb 2019
    • License: 827606 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Chamber of Commerce Number: 316979 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Registration Number: 1395777 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Economic Register Number (CBLS): 11500101 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Linked to: RAKHBARMADANI, Ali

    Supplemental Information: Owned by network associate Ali Rakhbarmadani.

    AVA TARABAR DARYA COMPANY (Arabic: شرکت آوا ترابر دریا)

    • AKA: AVA TARABAR DARYA CO LTD
    • Address: No. 0 Ground Floor, Imam Khomeini Boulevard, Nezami Alley, Post Neighborhood, Khorramshahr, Khouzestan 6415953185, Iran
    • Organization Established Date: 07 Jun 2022
    • National ID No.: 14011215616 (Iran)
    • Identification Number: IMO 6327561
    • Business Registration Number: 3920 (Iran)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Owner of Iran-flagged SEPEHR PAYAM, part of Shamkhani’s Caspian Sea fleet transporting goods between Iran and Russia; identified as blocked property below.

    BSG MANAGEMENT LTD (Arabic: بي اس جي مانجمنت ليميتد)

    • Address: Unit L-05-28, Level 28, Dubai International Financial Centre, Bur Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 19 Aug 2021
    • License: 4945 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Economic Register Number (CBLS): 11723352 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Linked to: ZAHED, Hossein Ghorbani

    Supplemental Information: Zahed serves as director of this company.

    DEZERA SHIPPING FZCO (Arabic: ديزيرا شيبينج ش م ح)

    • Address: First Floor, Building A2, BCA2 125 Business Cluster, Dubai CommerCity, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 08 Jul 2024
    • License: 50420 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Provides management services, including serving as a billing company, for Shamkhani vessels OPAL and JADE, both identified as blocked property below.

    EVORIT STRATEGY CONSULTING LLC-FZ (Arabic: ايفوريت ستراتيجي كونسالتينج-منطقة حرة ذ م م)

    • Address: 6th Floor, The Meydan Hotel Grandstand, Meydan Road, Nad Al Shiba, Bur Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Address: M Floor, Business Center 1, Nad Al Shiba, Bur Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Website: https://evoritglobal.com
    • Organization Established Date: 24 Sep 2025
    • License: 2537797.01 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Linked to: KAALUND, Martin Austin

    Supplemental Information: Co-founded and managed by Kaalund and Ronco, both former House of Shipping executives.

    GLAVOS SHIPPING FZCO (Arabic: غلافوس شيبينج ش م ح)

    • Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 05 Aug 2024
    • License: 50426 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: A service provider to the Shamkhani fleet.

    GOLDEN NEST GROUP LTD

    • Address: Boulevard Plaza Tower, 2, Office 2504, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Address: Ellen L Skelton Building, 2nd Floor, Fishers Lane, Road Town, Tortola VG1110, Virgin Islands, British
    • Organization Established Date: 07 Mar 2023
    • Company Number: OE028423 (United Kingdom)
    • Registration Number: 2103334 (Virgin Islands, British)
    • Linked to: ZAHED, Hossein Ghorbani

    Supplemental Information: Zahed is the beneficial owner of this company.

    HANSA SHIPPING INC.

    • Address: Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Road, Majuro, Ajeltake Island, Marshall Islands
    • Organization Established Date: 03 May 2024
    • Identification Number: IMO 0171833
    • Entity Code: 125737 (Marshall Islands)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Owner of tanker DARIKA, which Treasury says transported cargoes of Russian petroleum products for the network; identified as blocked property below.

    HOPE 1 SHIPPING INC

    • Address: Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Road, Ajeltake Island, Majuro 96960, Marshall Islands
    • Organization Established Date: 04 Feb 2022
    • Identification Number: IMO 6335884
    • Entity Code: 112970 (Marshall Islands)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Owner and operator of Antigua and Barbuda-flagged HOPE 1, previously managed and operated by Sai Wan Shipping Limited; identified as blocked property below.

    KANGRI 1 INC

    • Address: Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Road, Ajeltake Island, Majuro 96960, Marshall Islands
    • Organization Established Date: 06 Dec 2024
    • Identification Number: IMO 0134656
    • Registration Number: 129141 (Marshall Islands)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Owner and operator of Antigua and Barbuda-flagged CICCIO, identified as blocked property below.

    LUBECK SHIPPING LLC (Arabic: لوبيك للشحن ذ م م)

    • Address: Office No 1-032, Al Garhoud, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Address: BCB3 119, First Floor, Business Cluster – Building 3, Dubai CommerCity, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 31 May 2018
    • Identification Number: IMO 6418449
    • License: 808300 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Chamber of Commerce Number: 305098 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Economic Register Number (CBLS): 11306758 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Owner and operator of Palau-flagged GEMMA, identified as blocked property below.

    NUVETRRO SHIPPING INC

    • Address: Building 1, Nelson Spring Business Complex, Nelson Spring, Nevis, Saint Kitts and Nevis
    • Organization Established Date: 2025
    • Identification Number: IMO 0422802
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Owner and operator of Antigua and Barbuda-flagged JADE, identified as blocked property below.

    OCEAN SEARUM ONE LIMITED

    • Address: Level 54, Hopewell Centre, 183, Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, China
    • Organization Established Date: 23 May 2022
    • Identification Number: IMO 6335306
    • Business Registration Number: 74066533 (Hong Kong)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Owner and operator of Barbados-flagged ELPINIKI (also known as CORN), identified as blocked property below.

    PLATINUM KNIGHTS LTD

    • Address: Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Road, Ajeltake Island, Majuro 96960, Marshall Islands
    • Organization Established Date: 04 Jan 2024
    • Identification Number: IMO 6505796
    • Entity Code: 123580 (Marshall Islands)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Owner of tanker VIRENT, which Treasury says transported cargoes of Russian petroleum products for the network; identified as blocked property below.

    SAI WAN SHIPPING LIMITED (Chinese Traditional: 西環船務有限公司)

    • Address: 21/F CMA Building, 64 Connaught Road, Hong Kong, China
    • Organization Established Date: 06 Jul 2018
    • Business Registration Number: 69604477 (Hong Kong)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: One of the network’s shipping firms; previous manager and operator of HOPE 1, ELPINIKI, JADE, and OPAL. As of March 2026, it was part of the previously sanctioned House of Shipping group of companies, alongside Sea Lead Shipping PTE. Ltd. and its subsidiaries.

    SEA LEAD SHIPPING AGENCY INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED

    • Address: C-1102, Godrej Coliseum Near Somaiya Hospital Road, Lokmanya Pan Bazar, Sion (East) Sion, Mumbai 400022, India
    • Organization Established Date: 20 Sep 2022
    • C.I.N.: U63030MH2022FTC390753 (India)
    • Linked to: SEA LEAD SHIPPING PTE. LTD.

    Supplemental Information: An Indian subsidiary of Sea Lead Shipping PTE. Ltd., part of the network’s key containerized shipping operation.

    SEA LEAD SHIPPING DMCC (Arabic: سي ليد شيبينغ م.د.م.س)

    • Address: Unit No 3057, Level 1, Jewellry & Gemplex 3, DMCC Business Centre, New Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 29 Jul 2018
    • License: DMCC-506318 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Business Registration Number: DMCC130391 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Economic Register Number (CBLS): 11469509 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Linked to: SEA LEAD SHIPPING PTE. LTD.

    Supplemental Information: A Dubai-based subsidiary of Sea Lead Shipping PTE. Ltd.; as of March 2026, part of the previously sanctioned House of Shipping group of companies.

    SEA LEAD SHIPPING MARSHALL ISLANDS LTD

    • Address: Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Road, Ajeltake Island, Majuro 96960, Marshall Islands
    • Organization Established Date: 07 Dec 2021
    • Identification Number: IMO 6275841
    • Residency Number: 112141 (Marshall Islands)
    • Linked to: SEA LEAD SHIPPING PTE. LTD.

    Supplemental Information: A Marshall Islands-based subsidiary of Sea Lead Shipping PTE. Ltd.; as of March 2026, part of the previously sanctioned House of Shipping group of companies.

    SEA LEAD SHIPPING PTE. LTD.

    • Address: 78 Shenton Way, #10 Unit No. 001, Singapore 79120, Singapore
    • Organization Established Date: 28 Mar 2017
    • Identification Number: IMO 6104579
    • Registration Number: 201708559N (Singapore)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: A key containerized shipping firm within the network, managing and operating a fleet carrying goods worldwide; Treasury says it and its subsidiaries, together with Dubai-based Volta Shipping Services LLC, enable the network to carry licit and illicit goods to and from Iran, including to the Houthis in Yemen. Manager and operator of SHENTON WAY, TANJONG PAGAR 1, and PAYA LEBAR, all identified as blocked property below.

    SEPEHR NOOR MOBIN COMPANY (Arabic: شرکت سپهر نور مبین)

    • AKA: SEPEHR NOOR MOBIN SHIPPING CO
    • Address: Unit 3, Level 2, Mellat Tower, Ansari Street, Vali-e Asr Avenue, Tehran 1967713374, Iran
    • Address: Unit 201, 2nd Floor, No. 42, Enghelab Street, 12th Farvardin Street, corner of Nowruz Alley, Tehran 1314694161, Iran
    • Organization Established Date: 20 Dec 2015
    • National ID No.: 14005480093 (Iran)
    • Identification Number: IMO 5920175
    • Registration Number: 484305 (Iran)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Owns, operates, and manages Iran-flagged ARKANOOR 2 and ARKANOOR 3, part of Shamkhani’s Caspian Sea fleet; both identified as blocked property below.

    VELTRRIVO SHIPPING INC

    • Address: Building 1, Nelson Spring Business Complex, Nelson Spring, Nevis, Saint Kitts and Nevis
    • Organization Established Date: 2025
    • Identification Number: IMO 0422793
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Owner and operator of Antigua and Barbuda-flagged OPAL, identified as blocked property below.

    VOLTA SHIPPING SERVICES LLC (Arabic: فولتا لخدمات الشحن ذ م م)

    • AKA: VOLTA SHIPPING SERVICES FZCO
    • Address: Office No 1-024, Al Garhoud, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Address: Business Cluster Building 3 108, Fl 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 07 Jun 2017
    • Alt. Organization Established Date: 01 Oct 2023
    • License: 784220 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Alt. License: 50335 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Chamber of Commerce Number: 290374 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Registration Number: 1290166 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Economic Register Number (CBLS): 10957213
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Alongside Sea Lead, enables the network to carry licit and illicit goods to and from Iran, including to the Houthis in Yemen.

    WE FREIGHT SHIPPING LLC (Arabic: وي فرايت للشحن ذ م م)

    • AKA:
      • WE FREIGHT INVESTMENT FZCO (Arabic: وي فرايت انفستمنت ش م ح)
      • WE FREIGHT SHIPPING AND LOGISTICS THAILAND LIMITED
      • WEFREIGHT INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED
    • Address: Office No B2007-160, Trade Centre First, Bur Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Address: BCB3 218, Second Floor, Business Cluster Building 3, Dubai CommerCity, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Address: Unit 711, CTS-266, 266/1-172, Prakashwadi Sale, Village Gundavali, A.K. Road, Chakala Midc, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400093, India
    • Address: 4th, A/409, Ratnakar 9 Square, Mansi Circle Road, Vastrapur, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380015, India
    • Address: 71 Sukhumvit Road, Soi Sukhumvit 101/1, Phra Khanong 10260, Thailand
    • Website: https://wefreight.com/
    • Organization Established Date: 15 Feb 2016
    • Alt. Organization Established Date: 18 Jul 2019
    • Alt. Organization Established Date: 2022
    • Alt. Organization Established Date: 28 Jun 2022
    • License: 752407 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Alt. License: 18363 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Chamber of Commerce Number: 264431 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Registration Number: 2238929 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Alt. Registration Number: U74999MH2019PTC328229 (India)
    • Alt. Registration Number: 0105565143097 (Thailand)
    • Economic Register Number (CBLS): 10936447 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Alt. Economic Register Number (CBLS): 11905125 (United Arab Emirates)
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: Part of the We Freight group of companies (offices in the UAE, India, and Thailand), providing transportation intermediary services for the network’s container shipping businesses; Treasury says the group allows for the blending of illicit and licit trade, with proceeds from both ultimately benefiting Shamkhani.

    The following vessels have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: IRAN-EO13902  Executive Order 13902

    ARKANOOR 2 (EPDO3)

    • Vessel Type: General Cargo
    • Vessel Flag: Iran
    • Vessel Year of Build: 1989
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 8727848
    • MMSI: 422075700
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: SEPEHR NOOR MOBIN COMPANY

    Supplemental Information: Part of Shamkhani’s Caspian Sea fleet, transporting goods primarily between Iran and Russia.

    ARKANOOR 3 (EPDP9)

    • Vessel Type: General Cargo
    • Vessel Flag: Iran
    • Vessel Year of Build: 1990
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 8832083
    • MMSI: 422077300
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: SEPEHR NOOR MOBIN COMPANY

    Supplemental Information: Part of Shamkhani’s Caspian Sea fleet, transporting goods primarily between Iran and Russia.

    CICCIO (V2C2007)

    • Vessel Type: Container Ship
    • Vessel Flag: Antigua & Barbuda
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2000
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9192442
    • MMSI: 305007400
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: KANGRI 1 INC

    Supplemental Information: Part of the Shamkhani containerized fleet.

    DARIKA (3E8661)

    • Vessel Type: Chemical/Oil Tanker
    • Vessel Flag: Panama
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2011
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9506693
    • MMSI: 352005381
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: HANSA SHIPPING INC.

    Supplemental Information: One of two tankers Treasury says transported cargoes of Russian petroleum products for the network.

    ELPINIKI (8PQT)

    • AKA: “CORN”
    • Vessel Type: General Cargo
    • Vessel Flag: Barbados
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2014
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9606015
    • MMSI: 314159000
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: OCEAN SEARUM ONE LIMITED

    Supplemental Information: Previously managed and operated by Sai Wan Shipping Limited.

    ERIKA (EPCL7)

    • Vessel Type: General Cargo
    • Vessel Flag: Iran
    • Vessel Year of Build: 1987
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 8721454
    • MMSI: 422049900
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: RAHBAR MADANI, Mohammad Reza

    Supplemental Information: Part of Shamkhani’s Caspian Sea fleet, owned by network financier Mohammad Reza Rahbar Madani.

    GEMMA (T8A3035)

    • Vessel Type: General Cargo
    • Vessel Flag: Palau
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2011
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9509097
    • MMSI: 511873000
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: LUBECK SHIPPING LLC

    Supplemental Information: Part of the Shamkhani containerized fleet.

    HOPE 1 (V2C2008)

    • Vessel Type: Bulk Carrier
    • Vessel Flag: Antigua and Barbuda
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2012
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9514339
    • MMSI: 305008400
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: HOPE 1 SHIPPING INC

    Supplemental Information: Previously managed and operated by Sai Wan Shipping Limited.

    JADE (V2C2005)

    • Vessel Type: General Cargo
    • Vessel Flag: Antigua and Barbuda
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2010
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9418999
    • MMSI: 305005400
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: NUVETRRO SHIPPING INC

    Supplemental Information: Previously managed and operated by Sai Wan Shipping Limited; Dezera Shipping FZCO provides management services, including billing, for this vessel.

    NADIA (V4CL4)

    • Vessel Type: Container Ship
    • Vessel Flag: St Kitts & Nevis
    • Vessel Year of Build: 1997
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9122461
    • MMSI: 341765000
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: AARE LINES INC.

    Supplemental Information: Part of the Shamkhani containerized fleet.

    OPAL (V2C2006)

    • Vessel Type: General Cargo
    • Vessel Flag: Antigua and Barbuda
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2012
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9467158
    • MMSI: 305006400
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: VELTRRIVO SHIPPING INC

    Supplemental Information: Previously managed and operated by Sai Wan Shipping Limited; Dezera Shipping FZCO provides management services, including billing, for this vessel.

    PAYA LEBAR (V2C2003)

    • Vessel Type: Container Ship
    • Vessel Flag: Antigua & Barbuda
    • Vessel Year of Build: 1997
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9134232
    • MMSI: 305003400
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: SEA LEAD SHIPPING PTE. LTD.

    Supplemental Information: Managed and operated by Sea Lead Shipping PTE. Ltd.

    SEA ANCHOR

    • Vessel Type: General Cargo
    • Vessel Flag: Unknown
    • Former Vessel Flag: Palau
    • Vessel Year of Build: 1984
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 8858099
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: One of four vessels with undisclosed ownership and unknown flag state that Treasury says are known to operate for Shamkhani directly.

    SEA CASTLE

    • Vessel Type: General Cargo
    • Vessel Flag: Unknown
    • Former Vessel Flag: Palau
    • Vessel Year of Build: 1983
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 8891572
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: One of four vessels with undisclosed ownership and unknown flag state that Treasury says are known to operate for Shamkhani directly.

    SEA CRUISER

    • Vessel Type: General Cargo
    • Vessel Flag: Unknown
    • Former Vessel Flag: Palau
    • Vessel Year of Build: 1989
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 8729963
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: One of four vessels with undisclosed ownership and unknown flag state that Treasury says are known to operate for Shamkhani directly.

    SEA GALLEON

    • Vessel Type: General Cargo
    • Vessel Flag: Unknown
    • Former Vessel Flag: Palau
    • Vessel Year of Build: 1990
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 8843666
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: SHAMKHANI, Mohammad Hossein

    Supplemental Information: One of four vessels with undisclosed ownership and unknown flag state that Treasury says are known to operate for Shamkhani directly.

    SEPEHR PAYAM (EPCU9)

    • Vessel Type: Container Ship
    • Vessel Flag: Iran
    • Vessel Year of Build: 1995
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9110535
    • MMSI: 422058200
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: AVA TARABAR DARYA COMPANY

    Supplemental Information: Part of Shamkhani’s Caspian Sea fleet, transporting goods primarily between Iran and Russia.

    SHENTON WAY (3E8302)

    • Vessel Type: Container Ship
    • Vessel Flag: Panama
    • Vessel Year of Build: 1998
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9146314
    • MMSI: 352005129
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: SEA LEAD SHIPPING PTE. LTD.

    Supplemental Information: Managed and operated by Sea Lead Shipping PTE. Ltd.

    TANJONG PAGAR 1 (3E8523)

    • Vessel Type: Container Ship
    • Vessel Flag: Panama
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2007
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9404508
    • MMSI: 352006054
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: SEA LEAD SHIPPING PTE. LTD.

    Supplemental Information: Managed and operated by Sea Lead Shipping PTE. Ltd.

    VIRENT (3E3834)

    • Vessel Type: Chemical/Oil Tanker
    • Vessel Flag: Panama
    • Vessel Year of Build: 2007
    • Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9332171
    • MMSI: 352002167
    • Party Type: Vessel
    • Linked to: PLATINUM KNIGHTS LTD

    Supplemental Information: One of two tankers Treasury says transported cargoes of Russian petroleum products for the network.

    Amendments:

    The following changes have been made to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Programs:

    • IRAN  Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations, 31 CFR part 560
    • SDGT  Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594
    • IRGC  Iranian Financial Sanctions Regulations, 31 CFR Part 561
    • IFSR  Iranian Financial Sanctions Regulations, 31 CFR part 561

    BANK MARKAZI JOMHOURI ISLAMI IRAN

    • AKA:
      • BANK MARKAZI IRAN
      • CENTRAL BANK OF IRAN
      • CENTRAL BANK OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN (Arabic: بانک مرکزی جمهوری اسلامی ایران)
    • Address: PO Box 15875/7177, 144 Mirdamad Blvd, Tehran, Iran
    • Address: 213 Ferdowsi Avenue, Tehran 11365, Iran
    • Address: Mirdamad Blvd, 144 – P.O. Box 15875/7/77, Tehran, Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Digital Currency Address – TRX: TNiq9AXBp9EjUqhDhrwrfvAA8U3GUQZH81
    • Alt. Digital Currency Address – TRX: TTiDLWE6fZK8okMJv6ijg42yrH6W2pjSr9
    • Alt. Digital Currency Address – TRX: TAhwhFv3JpK39Nc2m8W5LPCcoTisutiRfp
    • Alt. Digital Currency Address – TRX: TJdgB1k6ot3f2nLuZug6D8eD3HavTmzmSK
    • Alt. Digital Currency Address – TRX: TXGHxdYbGy574z5hBu4LNzq9NzjZQ9bhUf
    • Alt. Digital Currency Address – TRX: TFQbqaNbmq2xsVor2NbufLkYZvxFC9wC7k
    • Linked to: ISLAMIC REVOLUTIONARY GUARD CORPS (IRGC)-QODS FORCE
    • Linked to: HIZBALLAH

    Supplemental Information: Neither of today’s two source documents discusses this amendment; it is not part of the Shamkhani action and appears to be a routine addition of newly identified digital currency addresses to Iran’s central bank, already on the SDN List.

    List of Changes:

    • Field Name: Alt. Digital Currency Address – TRX
      • Added: TAhwhFv3JpK39Nc2m8W5LPCcoTisutiRfp
    • Field Name: Alt. Digital Currency Address – TRX
      • Added: TJdgB1k6ot3f2nLuZug6D8eD3HavTmzmSK
    • Field Name: Alt. Digital Currency Address – TRX
      • Added: TXGHxdYbGy574z5hBu4LNzq9NzjZQ9bhUf
    • Field Name: Alt. Digital Currency Address – TRX
      • Added: TFQbqaNbmq2xsVor2NbufLkYZvxFC9wC7k

    Sources (beyond the update and press release PDFs):

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  • July 10, 2026: OFAC Update, Part 2: the Designations

    Iran-related and Counter Terrorism Designations; Issuance of Iran-related General License

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Targets Key Supreme Leader Financier and Iran’s Shadow Exchange Houses

    State Press Release: U.S. Squeezes Iran’s Regime Financiers and Shadow Banking Networks

    Additions:

    The following individuals have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: IRAN-EO13902  Executive Order 13902

    ABADI, Shokufeh Rostam

    • Arabic Name: شکوفه رستم آبادی
    • AKA: ROSTAMABADI, Shokoofeh
    • Address: Iran
    • DOB: 22 May 1956
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Female
    • National ID No.: 0491083157 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: Mohammad Darbani and Partners Exchange General Partnership Company

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, Rostam Abadi serves as chief executive officer of Mohammad Darbani and Partners Exchange General Partnership Company, one of three Iran-based currency exchange houses – family-run “general partnership” companies – that Treasury describes as collectively moving billions of dollars annually on behalf of sanctioned Iranian banks. As of early 2026, the exchange held tens of millions of dollars in foreign currency on behalf of its sanctioned Iranian bank customers.

    DARBANI, Mohammad

    • Arabic Name: محمد دربانی
    • Address: Iran
    • DOB: 15 Jul 1946
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • National ID No.: 0491004435 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: Mohammad Darbani and Partners Exchange General Partnership Company

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, Darbani is chairman of the board of directors of Mohammad Darbani and Partners Exchange General Partnership Company, which has facilitated transactions moving hundreds of millions of dollars in foreign currency on behalf of sanctioned Iranian banks over the last several years.

    KHANDAN, Ali Asghar

    • Arabic Name: علی اصغر خندان
    • Address: Shiraz, Iran
    • DOB: 08 Aug 1958
    • POB: Estahban, Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • National ID No.: 2529610525 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: Mohsen Khandan and Partners General Partnership Company

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, Ali Asghar Khandan is the only other partner and a board member of Mohsen Khandan and Partners General Partnership Company, alongside CEO Mohsen Khandan. The exchange has contracted with sanctioned Iranian banks including Parsian Bank, Export Development Bank, Bank Saderat, Bank Sepah, Sina Bank, Karafarin Bank, Saman Bank, and Tejarat Bank, and held over $117 million in foreign currency on behalf of sanctioned Iranian banks.

    KHANDAN, Mohsen

    • Arabic Name: محسن خندان
    • Address: Shiraz, Iran
    • DOB: 10 Aug 1985
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Alt. Nationality: Dominica
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • Passport: R0107863 (Dominica)
    • National ID No.: 2529897204 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: Mohsen Khandan and Partners General Partnership Company

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, Khandan is CEO of Mohsen Khandan and Partners General Partnership Company, which held over $117 million in foreign currency on behalf of sanctioned Iranian banks including Parsian Bank, Export Development Bank, Bank Saderat, Bank Sepah, Sina Bank, Karafarin Bank, Saman Bank, and Tejarat Bank.

    LAVASANI, Ahmad Navai

    • Arabic Name: احمد نوائی لواسانی
    • AKA: LAVASANI, Ahmad Navaei
    • Address: Iran
    • DOB: 27 Jul 1972
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • National ID No.: 0056443005 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: Lavasani and Partners General Partnership Company

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, Ahmad Navai Lavasani is CEO of Lavasani and Partners General Partnership Company, which has contracted with sanctioned Iranian banks including Bank Melli, Bank Saderat, Sina Bank, Shahr Bank, Eghtesad Novin Bank, Tourism Bank, Bank Pasargad, and Bank Mellat. As of early 2026, the exchange held hundreds of millions of dollars in foreign currency on behalf of its sanctioned Iranian bank customers.

    LAVASANI, Amir Navai

    • Arabic Name: امیر نوائی لواسانی
    • Address: Iran
    • DOB: 06 Sep 1970
    • POB: Tehran, Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • Passport: K54424834 (Iran) expires 06 Sep 2026
    • National ID No.: 0054082951 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: Lavasani and Partners General Partnership Company

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, Amir Navai Lavasani is chairman of the board of directors of Lavasani and Partners General Partnership Company.

    SARSHARI, Zahra

    • Arabic Name: زھرا سرشاری
    • Address: Iran
    • DOB: 22 Dec 1961
    • POB: Shiraz, Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Female
    • National ID No.: 2297395132 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: Mohammad Darbani and Partners Exchange General Partnership Company

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, Sarshari is a board member of Mohammad Darbani and Partners Exchange General Partnership Company.

    OFAC Programs:

    • SDGT  Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594
    • IRGC  Iranian Financial Sanctions Regulations, 31 CFR Part 561
    • IFSR  Iranian Financial Sanctions Regulations, 31 CFR part 561
    • IRAN-EO13876  Executive Order 13876

    ANSARI, Ali

    • Arabic Name: علی انصاری
    • AKA: ANSARI, Ali Ali Akbar
    • Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • DOB: 26 Dec 1968
    • POB: Ghazvin, Iran
    • Nationality: Iran
    • Alt. Nationality: Saint Kitts and Nevis
    • Alt. Nationality: Cyprus
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary Sanctions Risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Passport: B65348454 (Iran)
    • Alt. Passport: M54968815 (Iran) expires 27 Nov 2026
    • Alt. Passport: L00017629 (Cyprus)
    • Alt. Passport: RE0036662 (Saint Kitts and Nevis)
    • National ID No.: 4320705718 (Iran)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to:
      • KHAMENEI, Mojtaba
      • ISLAMIC REVOLUTIONARY GUARD CORPS

    Supplemental Information: Treasury’s release describes Ansari as a Dubai-based Iranian financial facilitator who oversees a global network of assets benefiting Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and other regime elites, and identifies him as the former owner and director of the now-defunct Ayandeh Bank, using that position to overextend loans and embezzle from the Iranian people before the Iranian government forced the bank’s dissolution in mid-October 2025. Using shell companies and bank accounts across multiple jurisdictions, Ansari built a portfolio – held through Smart Global Limited – of real estate and commercial holdings in Germany, Luxembourg, Spain, the United Kingdom, Cyprus, and the UAE, among other locations, benefiting Khamenei, his family, and other regime and IRGC figures. Ansari is designated pursuant to E.O. 13876 for materially assisting Khamenei, and pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for acting on behalf of the IRGC. Treasury notes the action follows Iran’s resumption of attacks on international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

    The following entities have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: IRAN-EO13902  Executive Order 13902

    CDM TRADING LIMITED

    • Address: Rm23, 7/F Lee on Industrial Building No. 70 Hung To Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
    • Organization Established Date: 21 Jan 2022
    • Company Number: 3123352 (Hong Kong)
    • Business Registration Number: 73747617 (Hong Kong)

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, CDM Trading Limited is a Hong Kong-based front company used to conduct financial transactions by multiple Iranian exchange houses, including Mohsen Khandan and Partners General Partnership Company.

    LAVASANI AND PARTNERS GENERAL PARTNERSHIP COMPANY

    • Arabic Name: شرکت تضامنی لواسانی و شرکاء
    • AKA:
      • LAVASANI AND PARTNERS COMPANY (Arabic: شرکت لواسانی و شرکاء)
      • LAVASANI AND PARTNERS EXCHANGE (Arabic: صرافی لواسانی و شرکاء)
      • SABZEH MEYDAN EXCHANGE
    • Address: Ground Floor, Iranian Gold and Coin Shopping Center Building, Number 820, Sabzeh Meydan Square, Bazaar Auction Alley, Bazaar, Tehran, Tehran 1161766113, Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Organization Established Date: 31 Aug 2005
    • National ID No.: 10102943860 (Iran)
    • Registration Number: 253979 (Iran)

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, this Tehran-based exchange house is controlled by partners Ahmad Navai Lavasani (CEO) and Amir Navai Lavasani (chairman), and has contracted with sanctioned Iranian banks Bank Melli, Bank Saderat, Sina Bank, Shahr Bank, Eghtesad Novin Bank, Tourism Bank, Bank Pasargad, and Bank Mellat. As of early 2026 it held hundreds of millions of dollars in foreign currency on behalf of its sanctioned Iranian bank customers, and it is designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy.

    MOHAMMAD DARBANI AND PARTNERS EXCHANGE GENERAL PARTNERSHIP COMPANY

    • Arabic Name: شرکت تضامنی صرافی محمد دربانی و شرکاء
    • AKA: MOHAMMAD DARBANI AND PARTNERS EXCHANGE COMPANY (Arabic: شرکت صرافی محمد دربانی و شرکاء)
    • Address: Ground Floor, No. 2, Ziba Dead End, Shahid Baradaran Jozi Street, Ekhtiariyeh Neighborhood, Tehran, Tehran 1951876364, Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Organization Established Date: 28 May 2016
    • National ID No.: 14005872174 (Iran)
    • Registration Number: 492428 (Iran)

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, this Tehran-based exchange house is controlled by partners Mohammad Darbani (chairman), Shokufeh Rostam Abadi (CEO), and Zahra Sarshari (board member). As of early 2026 it held tens of millions of dollars in foreign currency on behalf of its sanctioned Iranian bank customers and has facilitated transactions moving hundreds of millions of dollars over the last several years; it is designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy.

    MOHSEN KHANDAN AND PARTNERS GENERAL PARTNERSHIP COMPANY

    • Arabic Name: شرکت تضامنی محسن خندان و شرکا
    • AKA:
      • KHANDAN EXCHANGE
      • MOHSEN KHANDAN AND PARTNERS COMPANY
    • Address: Ground Floor, No. 0, Shahid Rajaee Boulevard (54 Shahid Rajaee), Baharan Alley 8, Moali Abad, Shiraz, Fars 7187611451, Iran
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions
    • Organization Established Date: 09 Jan 2017
    • National ID No.: 14006482791 (Iran)
    • Registration Number: 45635 (Iran)

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, this Shiraz-based exchange house is controlled by partners Mohsen Khandan (CEO) and Ali Asghar Khandan (board member), has contracted with sanctioned Iranian banks Parsian Bank, Export Development Bank, Bank Saderat, Bank Sepah, Sina Bank, Karafarin Bank, Saman Bank, and Tejarat Bank, and holds over $117 million in foreign currency on behalf of sanctioned Iranian banks. Hong Kong-based CDM Trading Limited and UAE-based Naba Alzaki Raw Materials Trading LLC have both been used as front companies by this exchange house, the latter as part of what Treasury describes as Iran’s “rahbar” network.

    NABA ALZAKI RAW MATERIALS TRADING LLC

    • Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • Organization Established Date: 20 Aug 2024
    • Commercial Registry Number: 2369427 (United Arab Emirates)
    • License: 1390462 (United Arab Emirates)

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, this UAE-based company is a front company used by Mohsen Khandan and Partners General Partnership Company as part of Iran’s “rahbar” network.

    OFAC Programs:

    • SDGT  Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594
    • IRAN-EO13876  Executive Order 13876

    SMART GLOBAL LIMITED

    • AKA: ZIBA LEISURE LIMITED
    • Address: Charlestown, Saint Kitts and Nevis
    • Secondary Sanctions Risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 20 Oct 2011
    • Organization Type: Activities of holding companies
    • Registration Number: C39335 (Saint Kitts and Nevis)
    • Linked to: ANSARI, Ali

    Supplemental Information: Per Treasury’s release, Smart Global Limited is a Saint Kitts and Nevis-based holding company established in 2011 under the former name Ziba Leisure Limited, through which Ansari invested Iranian public funds into real estate and commercial holdings across Germany, Luxembourg, Spain, the United Kingdom, Cyprus, and the UAE. The company is designated pursuant to E.O. 13876 and E.O. 13224, as amended, for being owned or controlled by, or for acting on behalf of, Ali Ansari.

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