U.S. Imposes Secondary Sanctions on Iran Over Digital Assets, Aviation, and Shipping

The U.S. Treasury has identified digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and virtual currencies, as targets for secondary sanctions. These measures aim to cut off Iran's access to global financial systems and limit its ability to fund activities abroad. Aviation and shipping sectors are also included, with specific emphasis on vessels and aircraft linked to Iran's energy and military operations. The sanctions follow a statement by Treasury Undersecretary for International Affairs, David S. S. Bessent, who outlined the new measures as part of a coordinated effort to counter Iran's destabilizing activities. Bessent highlighted the importance of targeting Iran's financial infrastructure and its ability to move goods and people across borders. The move has drawn immediate criticism from Iranian officials, who have called the sanctions an escalation of hostilities. The U.S. has not provided specific details on which entities or individuals will be affected, but the measures are expected to have a significant impact on Iran's economy.