Iran has accused middlemen involved in its oil trade of owing the country billions in unpaid debts, raising questions about the financial arrangements behind its sanctions-evading sales. The disputes highlight long-standing tensions over payment terms and enforcement in shadowy markets where Tehran has relied on third-party brokers to bypass international restrictions. Analysts suggest the delays may stem from disputes over pricing, delivery risks, or the use of barter systems rather than outright refusal to pay. The situation underscores the complexities of Iran’s oil trade, where sanctions and trust issues create a high-stakes environment for both buyers and sellers.
Iran says intermediaries handling its oil sales owe it billions of dollars, but how did the debts accumulate?