Rs 28000000000: After Hormuz blockade, Trump hits Iran with ‘silent strike’, weakens Tehran without missiles and bombs, targets its…
The United States has taken another major step against Iran on the economic front, freezing cryptocurrency worth USD 344 million (approximately Rs 2800 crore). The funds are believed to be linked to Iranian networks. The move comes at a time of continued tensions in West Asia, with ongoing efforts to end the conflict showing little progress.
Analysts see this as part of Washington’s broader strategy to weaken Iran financially without resorting to direct military action.
US signals crackdown on Iran’s financial networks
According to a report by CNN, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington would target all financial channels used by Iran to move money abroad.
‘We will shut down every economic route that supports Tehran’s regime,’ he said, indicating a shift toward financial warfare rather than traditional military confrontation.
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Why cryptocurrency was targeted
The action follows confirmation by Tether that it froze cryptocurrency worth USD 344 million held in two digital wallets. The company said the step was taken in coordination with US authorities after receiving intelligence suggesting the funds were linked to illicit activities.
US officials claim blockchain analysis provided evidence connecting the wallets to Iranian networks. Investigators also indicated that some transactions may be tied to digital wallets associated with the Central Bank of Iran, though this has not been independently verified.
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Iran’s use of crypto to bypass sanctions
Iran has increasingly turned to cryptocurrency to bypass longstanding US sanctions. With restrictions limiting access to the global banking system, digital assets have become an alternative channel for international trade and financial operations.
American officials argue that Tehran has used crypto to stabilise its currency, the rial, and sustain economic activity. Reports suggest that by 2025, cryptocurrency holdings in Iran had reached nearly USD 7.8 billion.
A significant portion of these holdings is believed to be linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a powerful military entity that also plays a major role in the country’s economy. Experts say such funds could be used to finance military operations and procure weapons.
A ‘silent war’ on the economic front
The latest move is being described as part of a ‘silent war,’ where economic and digital tools are used instead of conventional weapons. The US has already increased pressure around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route and is now targeting financial lifelines.
Experts believe that while the action is significant, its immediate impact may be limited, as Iran has adapted to years of sanctions and developed alternative systems.
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Washington is also widening its focus beyond Iran, targeting countries and companies indirectly supporting Tehran. Recently, the US imposed sanctions on a China-based refinery accused of purchasing Iranian oil, signalling a broader effort to disrupt third-party networks.
The conflict is also expanding into the cyber domain. Last year, one of Iran’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges reportedly suffered a USD 90 million hack, allegedly carried out by Israel-linked hackers. This highlights how digital finance and cyber operations are becoming central to the ongoing tensions.
What lies ahead
Overall, the US strategy reflects a shift from traditional warfare to economic and digital confrontation. From restricting key maritime routes to freezing crypto assets, each step is aimed at weakening Iran without direct military engagement.
The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this economic pressure forces Iran to change course or pushes it to find new ways to counter the restrictions.
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