US sanctions on Iran were temporarily relaxed, coinciding with Iran loading and exporting an estimated 40 million barrels of crude oil since June 15, 2026, including a surge in tanker traffic around Kharg Island. Nikkei Asia and Anadolu Agency report potential revenue of up to $8.5 billion and continued cautious recovery of Hormuz shipping after an interim US-Iran deal. Analyses differ on whether the move represents humanitarian relief, security risks, or reduced trade barriers.