Washington: The US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has announced sanctions on 18 individuals and entities connected to the suppression of protesters in Iran. This move comes amidst ongoing protests within the country, highlighting the US's stance against the Iranian government's actions.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent stated, "As the people of Iran continue to fight for their basic rights, the Iranian regime has responded with violence and repression." The sanctions specifically target the Fardis Prison, known for the inhumane treatment of women, and several Iranian security officials, including Ali Larijani, Secretary of the Supreme Council for National Security.
The Treasury is also focusing on Iran's 'shadow banking' networks, which have allegedly laundered proceeds from the country's petroleum and petrochemical sales. This action is part of the implementation of National Security Presidential Memorandum-2 of 2025, aimed at addressing these illicit financial activities.
Bessent emphasized that the US stands with the Iranian people in their protest for natural rights and condemned the regime for funding destabilizing activities globally. He reaffirmed the US's commitment to denying the Iranian regime access to international financial networks and banking systems as long as the oppression continues.