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Trump Pauses Sanctions to Sell Iranian Oil, Lower Prices

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump paused sanctions on Iranian oil stranded at sea to ease prices.
Scott Bessent, Treasury Secretary, announced a short-term authorization to sell 140 million barrels of oil to relieve supply pressures from Iran.
The measure could lower gasoline prices at the pump.
Bessent said the United States would use Iranian oil to counter Tehran while continuing Operation Epic Fury.
The sanctions pause lasts until April 19, 2026.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump paused sanctions on Iranian oil stranded at sea to ease prices.
Scott Bessent, Treasury Secretary, announced a short-term authorization to sell 140 million barrels of oil to relieve supply pressures from Iran.
The measure could lower gasoline prices at the pump.
Bessent said the United States would use Iranian oil to counter Tehran while continuing Operation Epic Fury.
The sanctions pause lasts until April 19, 2026.