The United States has imposed sanctions on Nobitex, Iran’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, accusing it of helping the Iranian government and affiliated groups evade international sanctions through digital asset transactions.
The US Treasury Department said Nobitex played a key role in facilitating financial activities linked to Iran’s military and security institutions, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). According to US officials, the platform was allegedly used to move funds and provide access to the global financial system despite restrictions imposed on Tehran.
Along with Nobitex, sanctions were also imposed on several associated entities and individuals accused of supporting the exchange’s operations. The measures freeze any US-based assets linked to the sanctioned parties and prohibit American individuals and companies from conducting business with them.
US authorities claim that Nobitex has become a major gateway for cryptocurrency transactions in Iran and has processed billions of dollars in digital asset trades. Officials argue that such platforms can be used to bypass traditional banking restrictions and help sanctioned organisations move money across borders.
Iran has not immediately responded to the latest sanctions. However, Tehran has repeatedly criticised US sanctions policies, arguing that they unfairly target the country’s economy and financial system.
The action is part of Washington’s broader effort to curb what it describes as Iran’s use of alternative financial networks to support activities that threaten regional stability. US officials have increasingly focused on cryptocurrency platforms, warning that digital assets can be exploited for sanctions evasion, money laundering and illicit financing.
The sanctions come amid continuing tensions between the United States and Iran over regional security issues, nuclear concerns and economic restrictions. Analysts say the move could further complicate Iran’s access to international financial markets and increase scrutiny of cryptocurrency transactions connected to the country.
For the global crypto industry, the development highlights growing regulatory attention on digital asset exchanges and their compliance obligations. It also underscores how cryptocurrencies have become an important arena in geopolitical and economic disputes, particularly in countries facing international sanctions.
The latest measures signal that the US intends to maintain pressure on financial networks it believes help sanctioned entities operate outside the traditional banking system.
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