US Sanctions Iranian Crypto Exchanges for Laundering Millions

US Sanctions Iranian Crypto Exchanges for Laundering Millions

First seen 9 Aug 2026, 02:01 UTC BloombergDecrypt.CoCaspianpost 76% similarity 77.0

Article Content

Browse articles
ThreatCluster

The US Treasury imposed sanctions on two Iranian crypto exchanges, Shelbit and Aban Tether, for laundering millions for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The sanctions were part of the 'Economic Fury' campaign aimed at disrupting Iran's financial networks. Shelbit, operated by Siavash Kayvanpour, allegedly facilitated over $2 million in transactions linked to the IRGC, while Aban Tether processed millions in cooperation with other sanctioned exchanges. The Treasury's actions included freezing US assets and offering rewards for information on the IRGC's financial operations. This move is part of a broader strategy to increase economic pressure on Iran amidst ongoing negotiations. The exchanges were added to the Specially Designated Nationals List, blocking their access to the US financial system.

Key Points: • US sanctions target Iranian crypto exchanges Shelbit and Aban Tether for laundering funds. • Shelbit allegedly processed over $2 million in transactions linked to the IRGC. • The sanctions are part of the US's ongoing 'Economic Fury' campaign against Iran.

ThreatCluster AI How this analysis works

Timeline

2026-08-07
US Treasury announces sanctions on Iranian exchanges
The Treasury blacklisted Shelbit and Aban Tether for laundering millions for the IRGC, blocking their US assets.
Decrypt.Co
2026-08-07
Siavash Kayvanpour identified as key operator
Kayvanpour, operating from Georgia and UAE, ran Shelbit Exchange and was linked to over $2 million in transactions for the IRGC.
Decrypt.Co
2026-08-08
Treasury offers rewards for disrupting IRGC finances
The State Department's Rewards for Justice program is offering up to $15 million for information on IRGC's financial networks.
Caspianpost
2026-08-08
Sanctioned exchanges added to SDN List
Shelbit and Aban Tether were designated under authorities targeting Iran's financial sector, blocking their access to US financial systems.
Decrypt.Co

Community

Browse all →