The United States has expanded sanctions on Iran's oil sector, targeting a Chinese teapot refinery and firms linked to Iran's 'shadow fleet.' The move is part of the Trump administration's 'maximum pressure' policy. The US Treasury warned that any entity involved in purchasing or facilitating Iran's oil trade is at serious risk. The sanctions come despite renewed diplomatic engagements between the US and Iran, with talks scheduled to continue in Oman. Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, stated that any future agreement with Iran must include the complete dismantlement of its nuclear program.