US to seize $1B in Iran crypto amid isolation campaign

6.6 Regulation

Oct 9, 2026

The US will seize $1B in Iran-linked crypto as part of a wider isolation campaign, including financial and travel restrictions, aiming to disrupt Iran’s access to global markets.

The United States has announced plans to seize approximately $1 billion in cryptocurrency assets linked to Iran. This action is part of a broader campaign to increase economic pressure and further isolate the country. The initiative, described as an "absolute isolation campaign," also includes financial restrictions, maritime blockades, travel limitations, and efforts to halt Iranian oil exports. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that authorities have identified the assets and could move to seize them within a week. However, no specific details about the cryptocurrencies, wallet addresses, or legal procedures were disclosed. This move continues ongoing efforts to disrupt Iran's access to international financial markets and follows previous actions targeting Iranian assets. Market reactions indicate that the planned seizure could reduce the chances of a U.S.-Iran deal being finalized in 2026, with declining confidence in the inclusion of reconstruction funding or uranium enrichment terms. Observers are closely watching for potential responses from Iran or its allies, which could further impact negotiations or escalate tensions.