Iran has firmly responded to U.S. news regarding the easing of sanctions on Iranian oil stored at sea, with Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf stating that "the supply has run out," confirming that the amounts in question have been sold and no surplus is available.
Iranian Oil Ministry spokesman Saman Qadoosi emphasized that there is currently no floating crude oil, explaining that U.S. statements aim only to reassure buyers and create a psychological impact on the market.
This commentary follows the U.S. announcement of a temporary 30-day exemption from sanctions, allowing the sale and trading of Iranian crude oil and its derivatives stored on tankers since March 20, 2026. This move is seen as part of U.S. efforts to reduce rising energy prices and alleviate supply pressures.
In this context, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Basset stated that this action could bring about 140 million barrels of oil into global markets, helping to increase supply and lower prices. He noted that Washington resorted to this measure after easing some restrictions on Russian oil, with this general license allowing the trading of Iranian oil until April 19.
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright mentioned that Iranian oil stored on ships could start arriving in Asian countries within 3 to 4 days, and that this influx may have a noticeable effect on prices in a timeframe of 10 to 14 days.
This development indicates the turmoil in the global energy markets, where oil prices have surged significantly, exceeding $100 per barrel over the past two weeks. However, it's essential to note that the U.S. step does not reflect a fundamental shift in policy toward Iran but rather is a limited measure driven by market conditions.
Reports indicate that U.S. comments focus on oil shipments that have already been loaded, meaning this is not an announcement of an open channel for the permanent export of Iranian oil or direct purchases. This step seems to be an urgent attempt to alleviate market tensions rather than a true change in sanctions policy.
In general analysis, oil has become a crucial element in political and economic debates among nations, not just an economic commodity, which increases the significance of any movements or agreements related to its flow and impact on regional and international relations, making it a fundamental component in power equations and market control. Thus, Iran presents clear challenges by denying the availability of excess oil, suggesting that the situation becomes increasingly complicated amid escalating crises.
A close follow-up on events highlights that economic and political dimensions converge at the point of oil, raising questions about the future of the energy market at a time when prices are rising while reliance on alternative sources in other countries increases.