Iran Sanctions
Target: IranSince 1979 (47 years)Active — Maximum Pressure
$1.5B
Est. Economic Impact
1979
First Imposed
47 yrs
Active Duration
Overview
The most comprehensive US sanctions regime, targeting Iran's oil exports, banking system, and nuclear program. Sanctions have been tightened and loosened across administrations, from the 1979 hostage crisis through the 2015 JCPOA nuclear deal to the current 'maximum pressure' campaign.
Impact
Iran's oil exports dropped from 2.5 million barrels/day to under 500,000. GDP contracted 6% in 2019. Inflation reached 40%+. However, Iran has developed sanctions evasion networks, advanced its nuclear program, and deepened ties with China and Russia.
Key Fact
Iran sanctions cost the average Iranian family an estimated $3,400/year in purchasing power. The US has sanctioned over 1,500 Iranian entities.