An Iranian court has ordered the U.S. government to pay over $6.7 billion in compensation to a Swedish company that halted the supply of special dressings and bandages for individuals suffering from a rare skin disorder. This decision came after the U.S. imposed sanctions on Iran, leading to the Swedish company's withdrawal from the Iranian market.
The International Relations Law Court in Tehran issued the order on behalf of 300 plaintiffs, including family members of victims and those physically and emotionally affected by the discontinuation of supplies. The court action was taken in response to the suffering of individuals with Epidermolysis bullosa, a genetic condition that causes painful blisters all over the body and eyes. The disease, often referred to as 'butterfly children,' can be life-threatening, with approximately 20 patients reported to have died following the Swedish company's decision.
In a separate incident, Iran seized a $50 million cargo of Kuwaiti crude oil intended for Chevron Corp. in the Strait of Hormuz last year. The seizure was linked to tensions with the West and the court's action on behalf of Epidermolysis bullosa patients.
Following the collapse of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, the relationship between Iran and the U.S. deteriorated, leading to a series of conflicts and legal disputes. U.S. judges have issued rulings demanding compensation from Iran for various incidents, while Iran has retaliated with lawsuits accusing the U.S. of involvement in a 2017 Islamic State group attack.
Despite the challenges, Iran has stated that it now locally produces the bandages previously supplied by the Swedish company. The ongoing legal battles and tensions between the two nations have resulted in significant financial losses and strained diplomatic relations.
Chevron, based in San Ramon, California, has contested the seizure of the oil cargo, claiming it was done under false pretenses. The Marshall Islands-flagged ship carrying the oil, known as the Advantage Sweet, recently indicated its intention to depart Iran, potentially signaling a resolution to the dispute.
