International sanctions play a vital role in shaping global security and financial compliance. In April 2025, both the U.S. and UK governments issued critical updates targeting terrorism financing, Iranian oil shipments, Syrian reconstruction, and Russian trade. These changes affect multiple sectors, including finance, maritime shipping, energy, and software.
Read on for a breakdown of the latest developments and what they mean for global businesses.
U.S. targets ISIS financing via FinCEN advisory
On April 1, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) released an advisory to help financial institutions detect suspicious activity related to ISIS funding. The advisory includes:
- Typologies used to move money between ISIS affiliates
- Red flags for identifying terrorist financing
- Guidance on compliance and reporting
Key red flag indicators for financing ISIS and global affiliates
Since no single indicator confirms illicit activity, institutions should assess surrounding factors such as a customer’s financial history, transaction patterns, and alignment with prevailing business practices before determining potential terrorist financing. Three key red flag indicators are:
- Unusual travel bookings: A single credit card or bank account is used to purchase travel, accommodation, or transportation for multiple unrelated individuals in areas known for ISIS activity, without any legitimate explanation.
- Suspicious fundraising campaigns: Fundraisers linked to social media profiles that express support for ISIS, feature ISIS-related iconography, or reference terms like “mujahideen” or “war against kufar” (non-believers), especially when soliciting funds for travel to known ISIS territories.
- Rapid fund collection and transfers: A customer collects small amounts through P2P transfers, social media, or virtual currency payments over a short period of time, then sends a lump sum to an individual in a region where ISIS presence is prevalent.
Read FinCEN’s full list of 11 red flags in its April advisory. This move is part of a broader strategy to disrupt terrorism financing globally.
Implication: Financial institutions should update their monitoring systems and review compliance protocols related to terrorist activity.
OFAC sanctions Chinese refinery for Iranian oil purchases
The U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) updated its shipping and maritime advisory to address Iranian oil sanctions evasion. The new guidance warns shipping companies, insurers, and financial institutions of the risks associated with transporting Iranian-origin petroleum products.
OFAC also designated Shandong Shengxing Chemical Co., Ltd., a China-based refinery, for purchasing over $1 billion in Iranian crude—facilitated by front companies for Iran’s IRGC-QF. One such front, COPC, laundered billions through the U.S. financial system.
Implication: Companies involved in maritime trade must strengthen due diligence and compliance to avoid indirect exposure to sanctioned Iranian entities. Read the full advisory for further information.
UK amends Syria sanctions to support reconstruction
The UK Government has announced key amendments to the Syria (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, lifting restrictions on select sectors including financial services and energy production, to drive vital investment in Syria’s energy infrastructure. These changes aim to support the Syrian people in rebuilding their country and economy.
Key changes include:
- Easing restrictions on financial services, energy, trade, and transport
- Enabling investment in Syria’s reconstruction
- Maintaining powers to sanction individuals responsible for human rights violations
Implication: UK businesses may now explore opportunities in select Syrian sectors—but must remain cautious of engagement with sanctioned individuals or entities. Further details about the amendments here.
UK expands sanctions against Russia
The UK Government has unveiled a broad package of trade sanctions targeting Russia, further restricting access to key UK exports These measures bring UK sanctions in line with international partners and include:
- Export bans on chemicals, electronics, plastics, metals, and machinery
- Restrictions on the transfer of industrial software and energy-related technology
- Prohibitions on associated services and information flows
The UK also updated its Russia sanctions guidance via the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI).
Implication: UK exporters and tech firms should review their operations to ensure full compliance with the evolving international sanctions landscape.
Why international sanctions matter
Staying current on international sanctions is essential for businesses that operate across borders. The risk of non-compliance includes severe penalties, reputational damage, and disruptions to global operations. To remain protected:
- Monitor sanctions updates from FinCEN, OFAC, and OFSI
- Strengthen compliance frameworks and due diligence checks
- Train teams to recognize high-risk activity and implement controls
Want more insights on the topics shaping the future of cross-border payments? Tune in to Converge, with new episodes every Wednesday.
