New Delhi: The US has decided not to renew sanctions waivers that had allowed limited purchases of oil from Iran and Russia without triggering US penalties. The move is expected to impact countries such as India, which had benefited from the exemptions.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the administration would not extend the general licenses for Russian and Iranian oil. He noted that the existing supplies covered under earlier permissions, particularly those already in transit before March 11, had been fully utilised.
The decision marks a shift away from the Donald Trump administration’s approach of using waivers to ease global oil supply pressures. The earlier policy aimed to stabilise energy prices, which have surged worldwide, including in the US, following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East.
ALSO READ: US claims Iran blockade fully effective as diplomacy signals cautious progress
Meanwhile, indirect talks between the US and Iran are underway to extend a two-week ceasefire set to expire on April 22. Diplomatic efforts have intensified, with regional players stepping in to mediate.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the US had not formally sought an extension of the ceasefire but remained actively engaged in negotiations. She indicated that another round of talks was likely and could take place in Islamabad, adding that Washington was optimistic about the prospects of reaching a deal. She also maintained that any official development would be communicated directly by the White House.
Parallel diplomatic outreach is also in motion. Asim Munir led a delegation to Tehran to convey messages from Washington and facilitate further negotiations, according to guardian.com. The delegation included Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, according to officials.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif began a four-day visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey to coordinate with regional powers and strengthen efforts aimed at securing peace in the region.
