ALBAWABA- The United States imposed fresh sanctions targeting seven senior Iranian officials and multiple entities allegedly linked to the violent suppression of nationwide anti-government protests, as well as networks facilitating illicit oil trade.
The Treasury Department designated Iran’s Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi, several IRGC commanders, and police chiefs for their roles in “violent repression and serious human rights abuses,” freezing any U.S. assets and barring Americans from conducting transactions with them.
Iranian companies and UAE-based front firms accused of money laundering, smuggling, and evading oil export restrictions were also sanctioned, as the funds are believed to support Tehran’s regime.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the measures aim to hold accountable those orchestrating a crackdown that allegedly has claimed over 600 lives since December 28, 2025.
The sanctions come amid Iran’s unprecedented unrest, triggered by economic collapse, including the rial’s devaluation and inflation exceeding 50%, and growing demands for regime change.
Protests have spread nationwide, with rioters targeting government symbols and security forces responding with live ammunition amid a near-total internet blackout. Tehran accuses the U.S. and Israel of inciting the unrest through arms and agents.
President Donald Trump, who announced a 25% tariff on nations trading with Iran on January 12, has temporarily moderated military threats.
Regional powers, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Turkey intervened to warn Washington of potential oil market chaos and broader conflict, with Riyadh denying airspace, Doha highlighting risks to U.S. bases, and Ankara calling for dialogue.
