Fact Check: U.S. Treasury Sanctions Iraqi Official Over Oil Smuggling Claims

### Claim 1 The U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions on individuals and entities accused of exploiting Iraq's oil sector to benefit Iran and its proxy militias.

Evidence The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control press release stated that sanctions targeted individuals and businesses exploiting Iraq's oil sector to increase pressure on Iran and its proxy militias. No contradictory sources were found.

Verdict True.

Analysis Multiple government sources, including Treasury and State Department statements, corroborate that the sanctions aim to curb oil smuggling that benefits Iran and allied militias. The action fits within broader U.S. pressure on Tehran.

### Claim 2 The Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctioned Ali Maarij Al-Bahadly, identified as Iraq's deputy minister of oil, for allegedly abusing his position to route oil to Iran and militia groups.

Evidence Both the Treasury press release and the State Department release identified Al‑Bahadly as Iraq’s Deputy Minister of Oil and said he abused his position to divert Iraqi oil to Iran and militia groups. No sources dispute this designation.

Verdict True.

Analysis Independent confirmation from Treasury and State Department, plus news reporting, shows Al‑Bahadly’s role and the basis for the sanctions. The move highlights U.S. focus on senior Iraqi officials linked to Iran‑backed groups.

### Claim 3 Senator Bernie Sanders accused oil companies of exploiting the conflict in Iran to rip off Americans.

Evidence The provided sources do not contain a statement, transcript, or video of Senator Sanders making this accusation. No independent verification appears in the supplied material.

Verdict Unverifiable.

Analysis Without a verifiable source such as a Sanders tweet, speech, or news report, the claim cannot be confirmed or refuted based on the evidence given. Further clarification from Sanders’ office or reputable outlets would be needed to assess its accuracy.

Watch for any official response from Senator Sanders’ office and potential further Treasury actions targeting oil smuggling networks.