The United States has decided not to renew the temporary easing of oil sanctions on Iran, signaling a return to its "maximum pressure" strategy. The short-term relief, which allowed Tehran to boost oil exports, is set to expire. During the easing period, Iran significantly increased its oil shipments-reportedly up to around 2 million barrels per day, largely to China. With sanctions tightening again, Iran's oil trade is expected to come under renewed strain.