U.S. says it seized about $1 billion in Iranian crypto as pressure campaign expands

The U.S. government has seized approximately $1 billion in cryptocurrency linked to Iran as part of 'Operation Economic Fury.' The initiative aims to cripple Iran's access to global financial networks and digital assets to pressure the regime.
Why it matters
This represents a significant escalation in the use of financial sanctions and digital asset tracking to enforce foreign policy objectives against Iran.
Share Share this article Copy link X icon X (Twitter) LinkedIn Facebook Email U.S. says it seized about $1 billion in Iranian crypto as pressure campaign expands The seizure, falling under "Operation Economic Fury," aims to restrict Iran s access to overseas revenue, banking networks, and crypto infrastructure. By Francisco Rodrigues , AI Boost | Edited by Aoyon Ashraf May 30, 2026, 3:50 p.m. 1 min read Make preferred on What to know : The U.S. seized about $1 billion in cryptocurrency tied to Iran as part of a campaign to cut off funding channels used by Tehran. The seizure, falling under "Operation Economic Fury," aims to restrict Iran s access to overseas revenue, banking networks, and crypto infrastructure. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent linked the pressure campaign to Iran s worsening economy, citing over 200% inflation and unpaid military personnel. The United States has seized about $1 billion worth of cryptocurrency tied to Iran, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said, describing the action as part of a broader campaign to cut off funding channels used by Tehran.
The article focuses on the mechanics of the seizure and official government statements, maintaining a neutral reporting tone.
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