US Seizes Approximately $1 Billion in Iranian-Linked Cryptocurrency Assets

According to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, the US has seized approximately $1 billion in cryptocurrency connected to Iran. Bessent disclosed the action during remarks at the 2026 Reagan National Economic Forum, stating that authorities had taken possession of crypto wallets linked to Tehran and describing it as part of a broader financial pressure campaign.

Bessent alleged that Iran had been obtaining between $400 million and $500 million per month through sanctions-evasion activities before US intervention disrupted those revenue flows. The seizure forms part of Operation Economic Fury, a program launched in March 2026 targeting Iran's access to capital through cryptocurrency holdings, bank accounts, and overseas assets.