Secretary Bessent Imposes Sanctions on Iran’s Protest Crackdown Architects

In a recent move, the U.S. Department of the Treasury has imposed sanctions targeting those responsible for the Iranian regime’s violent suppression of peaceful protests. This action is aimed at senior officials and financial networks that facilitate the regime’s human rights abuses and economic mismanagement.

Sanctions against Iranian Officials

The Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions against key figures within the Iranian government. These sanctions specifically target:

• Ali Larijani, Secretary of the Supreme Council for National Security (SCNS)
• Mohammad Reza Hashemifar, Commander of the Law Enforcement Forces (LEF) in Lorestan Province
• Nematollah Bagheri, IRGC Commander of Lorestan Province
• Azizollah Maleki and Yadollah Buali, LEF and IRGC commanders for Fars Province

Larijani has been identified as a proponent of violence against demonstrators, responding aggressively to widespread protests that began in December 2025. His role has been pivotal in coordinating responses to dissent on behalf of Iran’s Supreme Leader.

Impact on the Iranian Economy

The sanctions also target Iran’s shadow banking networks, which play a critical role in money laundering. These networks permit the government to divert revenues generated from natural resources, depriving the Iranian populace of essential services amidst severe economic distress.

The sanctions follow several executive orders, including:

• Executive Order 13553, addressing human rights abuses
• Executive Order 13876, focusing on the Supreme Leader and affiliates
• Executive Order 13902, targeting Iran’s financial sectors

Responses to Protests

Since the protests began, Iranian security forces have employed live ammunition against demonstrators, leading to numerous casualties. Reports indicate horrors such as security personnel attacking hospitals treating wounded protesters.

Shadow Banking Mechanisms

The sanctions disrupt extensive shadow banking operations involving entities like Bank Melli and Shahr Bank. These banks utilize front companies globally to execute transactions that facilitate Iran’s oil and financial operations.

• Nikan Pezhvak Aria Kish Company, a key player in managing banking operations related to the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC)
• Empire International Trading FZE, linked to Bank Melli for foreign currency management

Broader Implications of Sanctions

All property and assets belonging to the designated individuals and entities within U.S. jurisdiction are now blocked. Violations of these sanctions may incur severe penalties for both U.S. and foreign entities involved with the sanctioned individuals.

The U.S. reinforces its commitment to support the Iranian people’s pursuit of freedom and justice through stringent economic strategies targeting the regime’s financial infrastructure and human rights abuses.