Washington sanctions crypto platforms linked to Iran for the first time

For the first time, the United States has sanctioned crypto exchanges linked to Iran, marking a major development in their financial pressure strategy. This decision, announced at the end of January 2026, targets two British platforms accused of facilitating transactions for Iranian entities under embargo. What are the stakes of this unprecedented measure for the crypto sector and international relations?

Historic US sanctions against crypto exchanges linked to Iran

On January 30, 2026, the US Treasury struck Zedex Exchange Ltd. and Zedxion Exchange Ltd., two crypto exchanges based in the United Kingdom, for their alleged role in financing Iranian entities, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). These platforms, accused of processing more than 94 billion dollars in transactions since 2022, are the first in the crypto sector to be targeted by US sanctions.

This decision is part of an effort to cut off Iran’s access to alternative financial channels, notably cryptocurrencies like USDT, used to bypass embargoes. Scott Bessent, Deputy Treasury Secretary, stated that these sanctions aim to close doors to networks exploiting digital assets to finance illicit activities. Tehran responded by denouncing an economic war while denying any illegal use of cryptos.

The United States against crypto exchanges: a geopolitical escalation with unpredictable repercussions

The US sanctions against crypto platforms linked to IRAN come amid growing tensions between the United States and Iran. Since December 2025, Tehran has faced accusations of violently repressing protests and restarting its nuclear program, despite Israeli and US strikes on its sensitive sites in 2024. In response, Iran has conducted military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz and threatens retaliation in case of a new attack.

This geopolitical escalation could have unpredictable consequences. On the one hand, the United States is increasing pressure to isolate Iran economically, now targeting digital assets. On the other hand, Tehran, supported by Russia and China, could intensify its cyberattacks or regional destabilization activities, notably via its proxies in the Middle East.

Crypto market on alert: crash or high volatility expected after IRAN sanctions?

The US decision immediately triggered a shockwave in the crypto market. Indeed, bitcoin, already under pressure due to geopolitical tensions, fell below the $78,000 mark in early February 2026! Dragging down other cryptocurrencies like ethereum and Solana in its wake. As a result, investors fear increased regulation and widespread mistrust towards stablecoins, such as USDT, often used to circumvent sanctions.

Exchange platforms, even those not concerned by sanctions, could tighten their compliance procedures (KYC/AML) to avoid any risk. Some might even delist projects or users linked to embargoed countries, such as Russia or North Korea. This situation could exacerbate crypto market volatility, already marked by strong speculation.

US sanctions against crypto platforms mark a turning point in the modern economic war. Between geopolitical escalation and increased market volatility, this decision raises a crucial question… Can cryptos survive as a circumvention tool, or does this measure sound the death knell for their illicit use? The ecosystem thus enters an era of increased surveillance, where compliance will become a major challenge for all stakeholders.