On January 12, the US Treasury Department announced sanctions against several Iranian companies and individuals operating in the cryptocurrency sector. The measures target entities accused of facilitating illicit financial transactions, including money laundering and evading existing sanctions.
According to the announcement, the sanctions list includes cryptocurrency mining firms and individuals involved in cross-border fund transfers. The US alleges these entities exploited the cryptocurrency system to circumvent international financial regulations.
The move comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. The US Treasury Secretary stated: "We will continue to crack down on any attempts to exploit technology to evade sanctions." Iran has not yet issued an official response to the new sanctions.