Trump ends all oil import waivers maximum pressure intensifies

President Trump directs OFAC to allow all eight notable Reduction Exceptions to expire without renewal, eliminating the last legal pathway for Iranian oil exports to major buyers. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo declares the U.S. aims to drive Iranian oil exports to "zero." Treasury simultaneously designates Iran's central bank and national shipping companies, closing financial corridors. This action removes approximately 2.5 million barrels per day of Iranian crude from global markets and forces buyers to choose between Iran or U.S. markets.