The United States’ sanctions on the Iranian shipping network, which were imposed in December, took effect, US Secretary of State announced.
Mike Pompeo in a statement on Monday warned commercial and maritime industries, governments and others that they risked U.S. sanctions if they did business with the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) and its Shanghai-based subsidiary, E-Sail Shipping Company.
Pompeo explained that the sanctions were first announced in December, but the State Department allowed a delay for them to take effect, giving time for exporters of humanitarian goods to Iran to find different shipping methods.
“These designations serve as a clear warning that anyone doing business with or otherwise supporting IRISL or E-Sail are exposed to potential sanctions and risk contributing to Iran’s proliferation-sensitive programs, including its nuclear and missile programs,” Pompeo said in the statement.
IRISL is accused of repeatedly transporting items related to Iran’s ballistic missile and military programs.
