Iran Evades US Sanctions via Malaysia

Iranian-linked tankers are exploiting 'jurisdictional gaps' near Malaysia's waters to conduct ship-to-ship transfers of sanctioned Petroleum, primarily destined for China. The United Against Nuclear Iran advocacy group reports 42 such transfers since February 28 in the Eastern Outer Port Limits (EOPL) area. The Malaysia — Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, led by Mohamad Rosli Abdullah, denies ignoring the trade, stating transfers occur outside territorial waters and beyond radar coverage, exploiting jurisdictional gaps. Senior UANI adviser Charlie Brown warns that Malaysia is becoming a facilitator of illicit activity. Despite a United States blockade of Iranian ports, Iranian-linked tankers continue to operate. Indonesia's Foreign Ministry, through spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang, is reviewing the situation as the area borders Indonesian territory. Malaysia has previously seized vessels involved in unauthorized oil transfers, but they were later released on bond.