US seizes $1b Iranian Crypto assets, expands sanctions pressure

The United States has seized nearly $1 billion worth of Iranian cryptocurrency assets and imposed new counterterrorism sanctions on Iranian individuals and entities, 24NewsHD TV reported on Sunday.  

Speaking at the Reagan National Economic Forum, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the seizure of Iranian crypto assets was part of the economic pressure campaign launched against Iran during President Donald Trump's administration.

Bessent said the United States had confiscated cryptocurrency assets valued at approximately $1 billion, describing the move as another step in efforts to restrict Tehran’s access to financial resources.

The Treasury Secretary was also asked about the future of restrictions linked to the Strait of Hormuz.

He said any measures that are removed would be lifted gradually.

Asked whether Washington was close to reaching an agreement with Tehran, Bessent said Iran had shown a willingness for the first time to discuss nuclear-related issues.

He added that Oman had assured the United States that no tax would be imposed on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Bessent warned that any support provided to Iran could expose Oman to US sanctions.

Separately, the US Treasury Department announced a fresh round of counterterrorism sanctions targeting Iranian individuals and organisations.

The latest developments come as President Trump signaled that a potential agreement with Iran remains under consideration.

Trump said Iran would have to commit never to obtaining a nuclear weapon or bomb as a condition for any future deal.