US Treasury Chief Signals Wider Iran Sanctions on Airlines, Maritime, Crypto
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated airlines, maritime, and digital assets could face sanctions as part of Washington's push to squeeze Iran's economy.
Washington, Sept 2 – US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Wednesday that airlines, the maritime industry, and digital assets could be added to the list of targets for sanctions against Iran. Speaking to Fox News, Bessent outlined potential new measures as the Trump administration continues its stated strategy of intensifying economic pressure on Tehran.
The remarks signal a possible broadening of the sanctions regime beyond traditional sectors. While no specific airlines or shipping firms were named, the inclusion of digital assets suggests Washington is eyeing cryptocurrency channels that might be used to bypass existing restrictions.
Bessent's comments come amid ongoing efforts by the administration to choke off revenue streams to the Iranian government. The Treasury chief did not provide a timeline or detailed criteria for the proposed sanctions, but his statement underscores the administration's resolve to use economic tools as a primary lever in its Iran policy.
The potential expansion of sanctions could have ripple effects on global shipping and aviation industries that operate in or with Iran, as well as on crypto exchanges wary of secondary sanctions. Observers will watch for formal designations in the coming weeks.