Key facts
- The U.S. is targeting digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping for secondary sanctions against Iran.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the sanctions, calling the initiative "Operation Economic Outcast."
- Bessent stated the goal is to "sever every economic lifeline" that supports the Iranian regime.
- He warned that any economic engagement with Iran would result in exposure to U.S. sanctions.
The United States is expanding its sanctions regime against Iran, targeting key sectors including digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the initiative, named "Operation Economic Outcast," on Monday, stating its purpose is to "sever every economic lifeline" that sustains the Iranian regime.
During a press conference, Bessent declared that "an economic engagement of any kind" with Iran would expose those responsible to the "full reach of American power." He emphasized that "no one is above the reach of U.S. sanctions."
The move signifies a significant escalation in U.S. economic pressure on Tehran, aiming to isolate the country financially and cripple its ability to fund its activities.