US Treasury Targets Iranian Crypto Assets in New Financial Offensive

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a new 'financial offensive' against Iran on Monday, targeting the country's use of crypto assets as part of a broader effort to cripple its financial capabilities. The initiative, dubbed 'Operation Economic Outcast,' aims to sever every economic lifeline to Tehran.

'Any entity that facilitates money laundering on behalf of Iran will be removed from the U.S. dollar system,' Bessent said. 'The clock just started ticking.'

The new sectoral sanctions determinations target five of Iran's most vital lifelines: digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping. These measures broaden secondary sanctions risk for anyone continuing to do business with Iran.