U.S. says it seized about $1 billion in Iranian crypto as pressure campaign expands
The U.S. has seized about $1 billion in cryptocurrency linked to Iran, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He said the action is part of Operation Economic Fury, a campaign to block Tehran’s access to foreign revenue, banking channels, and digital assets. Treasury has also targeted Iran’s shadow banking networks, suppliers of weapons and military components, and intermediaries involved in oil sales and militia financing in Iraq. Bessent said the pressure campaign is worsening Iran’s economy, citing unpaid military and police personnel, inflation above 200%, food vouchers, and internet shutdowns. He added that the U.S. and partners are also pursuing overseas real estate and other assets tied to funds diverted from the Iranian people.
