ExchangeDEX+

Buy Crypto Markets Spot FuturesGOLD Earn Event Center

Washington has blacklisted two UK crypto platforms over alleged IRGC-linked transactions, signalling tougher enforcement against sanctions evasion using digitalWashington has blacklisted two UK crypto platforms over alleged IRGC-linked transactions, signalling tougher enforcement against sanctions evasion using digital

US Sanctions Blacklist UK Crypto Exchanges Over Iran-Linked Activity

Author: Cryptonews AU

Source: Cryptonews AU

2026/02/02 14:06

US sanctions target UK crypto exchanges accused of facilitating Iran-linked financial activity.
Treasury alleges exchanges processed billions through USDT networks tied to the IRGC.
Action forms part of broader crackdown on Iranian officials and sanctions evasion.

The US Treasury has sanctioned two UK-registered cryptocurrency exchanges, marking the first time entire digital asset platforms have been blacklisted under Iran-specific sanctions authorities. The Office of Foreign Assets Control announced on Friday that Zedcex and Zedxion were designated for allegedly processing transactions linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

US officials said the exchanges facilitated nearly US$1 billion (AU$1.44 billion) in transactions tied to IRGC-linked counterparties, with a significant share reportedly flowing through Tether’s USDT stablecoin on the Tron network. Treasury disclosures stated that Zedcex alone processed more than US$94 billion (AU$135.36 billion) in total transactions since registering in August 2022.

The sanctions also targeted Iranian financier Babak Morteza Zanjani, who US authorities describe as having previously embezzled billions of dollars in Iranian oil revenue. Treasury alleges that after his death sentence was commuted in 2024, Zanjani resumed financial activities supporting regime-linked projects and IRGC-associated networks.

Related: Visa, Mastercard Play Down Stablecoins for Payments as Consumer Demand Falls Short

Digital Assets Under Increased Scrutiny

Blockchain intelligence firm TRM Labs reported that approximately 56% of the exchanges’ transaction volume since 2023 was linked to IRGC-related entities. US officials said this enforcement action reflects growing concern over the use of digital assets to bypass sanctions and move funds outside traditional financial systems.

The exchange designations were announced alongside sanctions against senior Iranian officials accused of overseeing violent crackdowns on protesters, including Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni Kalagari and multiple IRGC commanders. The Treasury confirmed that more than 875 Iranian-linked individuals, vessels and aircraft were sanctioned during 2025 alone.
Related: SEC Chair Walks Back Timeline on Sweeping Crypto Exemptions After Wall Street Pushback

The post US Sanctions Blacklist UK Crypto Exchanges Over Iran-Linked Activity appeared first on Crypto News Australia.

Disclaimer: The articles reposted on this site are sourced from public platforms and are provided for informational purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the views of MEXC. All rights remain with the original authors. If you believe any content infringes on third-party rights, please contact service@support.mexc.com for removal. MEXC makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content and is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided. The content does not constitute financial, legal, or other professional advice, nor should it be considered a recommendation or endorsement by MEXC.