US Launches 'Economic D-Day' Against Iran, Targets Key Sectors

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced what he called an 'economic D-Day' against Iran on August 24, 2026. The campaign, dubbed Operation Economic Outcast, targets five key sectors: digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping.

The Treasury Department issued new sectoral sanctions determinations and sanctioned over 60 entities, individuals, and vessels that help Iran procure nuclear and missile technology or generate oil revenue.

Bessent warned countries, companies, and financial institutions that facilitate transactions helping turn Iranian oil into revenue would be targeted. He said the administration is using 'quiet diplomacy' to tell governments its expectations and has not disclosed deadlines for compliance.

The campaign comes almost six months after the United States and Israel launched a war against Iran in February. The administration's goal is to sever every economic lifeline sustaining the government until Tehran stands alone.