WASHINGTON (VINnews)— A CBS News investigation has uncovered that China continues to secretly purchase Iranian oil in defiance of U.S. sanctions. According to the report, Beijing is utilizing a covert network of vessels known as a “dark fleet” to facilitate ship-to-ship transfers in international waters, helping mask the oil’s origin.
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The practice involves disabling ship transponders and conducting transfers far from the oversight of global authorities. Analysts say the strategy allows China to circumvent sanctions and keep Iranian oil flowing into its markets while avoiding detection by U.S. and international regulators.
Experts warn that the operation not only undermines American foreign policy but also poses maritime safety and environmental risks due to the clandestine nature of the transfers.
U.S. officials have not yet publicly commented on the findings of the report.