Washington: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the United States has seized $1 billion in Iranian cryptocurrency holdings and is collaborating with European allies to confiscate properties linked to Tehran. "I believe that we have seized about a billion dollars of their crypto," Bessent stated, noting the US's direct approach in targeting and seizing the wallets.

According to Anadolu Agency, Bessent mentioned that some account holders might still be unaware of the asset seizures. "Some of them may be like typing in right now and realize they might not realize that their wallet had been grabbed," he explained. The US is actively coordinating with international partners to further these efforts.

Bessent highlighted the cooperation with European allies in broader asset seizures, including the confiscation of properties such as villas and houses. He framed the initiative as an effort to reclaim funds allegedly stolen from ordinary Iranians, stating, "This is money that's stolen from the Iranian people."

Additionally, Bessent reported that Iran's oil export facility at Kharg Island has effectively been shut down due to a US naval blockade. He also noted that Iran's recent hostile actions towards Gulf states had resulted in diplomatic setbacks, with Gulf allies now being "very good partners" in financial enforcement efforts against Tehran. This partnership has enabled the US to freeze Iranian bank accounts in the region.