New UANI Analysis: Panama Flags 17% of Iran Sanctions-Busting Tankers—Despite Recent Crackdown, Gaps Remain

(New York, NY) — United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) today revealed that 17% of vessels suspected of participating in the illicit transfer of Iranian oil are currently flagged by Panama, raising urgent questions about the Panama Maritime Authority’s (AMP) ongoing role in undermining global sanctions enforcement.

UANI’s updated tanker tracker now lists 542 foreign vessels suspected of transporting sanctioned Iranian crude and petroleum products—many operating through tactics including "flag hopping," ownership obfuscation, and AIS manipulation. Of these, nearly one in five currently sails under Panama’s flag, making it the most commonly used national registry among this shadow fleet.

“Panama has long been the flag of choice for sanctions violators and oil smugglers,” said Ambassador Mark D. Wallace, CEO of UANI. “We’ve repeatedly provided the AMP with names, evidence, and warnings. Their lack of consistent, proactive enforcement continues to undermine global sanctions compliance and the interests of the United States and its allies. If Panama fails to align its practices with international expectations, it must be held accountable.”

Following sustained international and UANI-led pressure, Panama has made some progress. In March 2025, the AMP announced the deregistration of 107 vessels linked to sanctions violations, with an additional 18 under review. This action was enabled by Executive Decree No. 512, enacted in October 2024, which allows the AMP to unilaterally remove vessels from its registry if their owners appear on international sanctions lists.

While this is a step in the right direction, even after five years of engagement and more than 50 letters from UANI, the Panama Maritime Authority has yet to enact a necessary fundamental change in policy. Just last month, on April 28, 2025, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned three vessels for delivering oil and gas to Yemen’s Houthi rebels—two of which were flying Panama’s flag. These designations demonstrate that serious enforcement gaps persist and Panama’s registry continues to be exploited.

UANI has consistently shared detailed vessel data with flag registries around the world. While many have taken swift action to de-flag suspect ships, Panama has remained largely inactive—allowing sanctioned trade to persist under its watch. UANI is calling for immediate enforcement action and greater international scrutiny of open registries that facilitate sanctions evasion.

For media inquiries or to request interviews with Ambassador Wallace or Claire Jungman, please contact: [email protected]