Tether Freezes $550M in Iran-Linked USDT Amid Sanctions Crackdown

Tether has frozen nearly $550 million in Iran-linked USDT, according to a recent statement by the company. The freeze is part of Washington's broader campaign against Iran's sanctions-evasion networks.

The funds were held in wallets linked to Iran's Central Bank and sanctions-related networks, which were identified by U.S. authorities as part of Operation Economic Outcast. Tether has worked closely with U.S. law enforcement agencies, providing information that led to the freeze.

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino explained that the company's approach is based on the transparency of public blockchains, which provides authorities with visibility into fund movements not available with cash.