Add as a preferred source on GoogleU.S. May Seize $1 Billion in Iran-Linked Cryptocurrency This Week
Treasury Secretary Bessent said officials know where the assets are as the administration shifts toward what he called Iran’s “absolute isolation.”
U.S. officials may seize about $1 billion in cryptocurrency linked to Iran this week, Treasury Secretary Bessent said Thursday, signaling a sharp expansion of sanctions enforcement against digital assets.
Bessent said authorities know where the cryptocurrency is and are working to isolate it. He made the remarks at the NPolicy Summit in Washington.
The possible seizure comes as the administration intensifies pressure on Iran. Bessent described the policy shift as moving from “maximum pressure” to “absolute isolation,” alongside measures targeting maritime access, air travel and overland routes.
He said the United Arab Emirates and Oman are cooperating with the United States, while Pakistan and Turkey are also involved in efforts to restrict land routes into and out of Iran.
The potential action would make cryptocurrency enforcement a central part of the broader campaign against Iran. No additional details on the assets, the legal process or the timing of a seizure were provided.
Riza Dagoc
Riza Dagoc reports on regulation, investing and the digital-asset business for TokenPost. Send corrections or tips to info@tokenpost.com.