Concerns are growing that the international banking community’s reluctance to deal with Iran could worsen and affect insurance payouts related to the loss of the 164,000-dwt tanker Sanchi (built 2008) and its 32 crew.
The National Iranian Tanker Co (NITC)-owned vessel exploded then sank after hitting the 76,000-dwt bulker CF Crystal (built 2001) off the coast of China.
Recent comments from US President Donald Trump that he is ready to reinstate sanctions against Iran if its 2015 nuclear deal is not improved have reportedly heightened sensitivity of banks towards dealing with Iranian-linked payments.
