The United States has intensified its economic pressure on Iran by seizing nearly $500 million in cryptocurrency assets, according to Scott Bessent. The move is part of a broader campaign called “Operation Economic Fury,” aimed at weakening Iran’s financial system and limiting its access to global markets.
Speaking in an interview, Bessent revealed that around $350 million in crypto assets had been seized earlier, followed by an additional $100 million recently, bringing the total close to half a billion dollars. He also stated that US authorities are actively working to freeze bank accounts linked to Iranian entities worldwide, increasing financial pressure on Tehran.
The campaign was reportedly initiated under the direction of Donald Trump, who ordered the economic crackdown in March last year. According to Bessent, Trump recently instructed officials to further intensify these measures, signaling a continued hardline approach toward Iran.
In addition to direct financial actions, the US is also urging foreign governments and international companies to cut economic and business ties with Iran. This includes reducing trade, limiting financial transactions, and restricting access to global banking systems.
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Officials claim that these actions have already pushed Iran into a difficult economic situation, with growing pressure on its currency, trade, and financial networks. The use of cryptocurrency had previously allowed some entities to bypass traditional sanctions, but the latest crackdown aims to close those gaps.
This development highlights the increasing role of digital assets in global finance and how governments are adapting their strategies to regulate and control them. It also reflects the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran, where economic measures are being used as a key tool of influence.
