Tensions between the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Iran escalated on February 27 when the FBI designated Iran as a “State Sponsor of Unlawful Detention.” This move indicates that Washington believes American citizens are being detained for political reasons. The FBI cited two cases: Robert A. Levinson, a former agent who went missing in 2007 while visiting Kish Island, and Shayan Kazemi, an American citizen missing since 2011, last seen in Istanbul. The U.S. still offers a maximum reward of up to $25 million and $200,000 for related information.
This designation increases diplomatic pressure and focuses efforts on rescue, but does not imply military action. However, the U.S. has strengthened its forces in Israel amid regional tensions. Additionally, Donald Trump’s statements about increasing pressure on Cuba have heightened market concerns. The increased geopolitical risk has driven Bitcoin down, even though diplomatic channels remain open.
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