Output restored to pre-2018 level of 3.8 million barrels per day, official says, noting Raisi's decision to invest $500 million to restore facilities and increase production

Diplomats say complicating factors include order of proposed measures, dealing with advances in Iran’s nuclear processing capability and presidential election in Iran

State Department spokesman insists the move is unrelated to the negotiations, but can't say what 'change in behavior' by Tehran led to the removals

Trump administration ups 'maximum pressure' campaign days ahead of vote, announcing plan to use proceeds from sale of fuel confiscated from Tehran tankers to benefit terror victims

Treasury Department designates 3 state entities under a counterterrorism authority, making it more difficult for a potential Biden administration to reverse move