Iran oil minister says crude exports continue despite US naval blockade

TEHRAN, Iran — TEHRAN — Iran's Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad said on Thursday that the country continues to export crude oil to distant buyers despite a US naval blockade, though he acknowledged sales have declined. Speaking to reporters, Paknejad declined to share specific figures, citing concerns the details could be used by adversaries, and said shipments are still being sold in waters outside Iranian territorial limits. The minister's remarks followed Central Bank of Iran Governor Abdolnaser Hemmati's August 20 statement that Iran was "not exporting any oil." Paknejad did not directly address that comment but said the situation was being closely monitored. The United States has been intercepting Iranian vessels entering and exiting ports as part of the naval blockade. US Central Command said 75 commercial vessels had been turned around since the blockade resumed on July 14. Iran exports the bulk of its crude to China. On Monday, the US Treasury Department launched a broader campaign aimed at fully isolating Iran from the global financial system.