The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Eskandar Momeni Kalagari, Iran's interior minister, accusing him of overseeing a violent crackdown on nationwide protests. The sanctions, announced Friday, also target Babak Morteza Zanjani, a former Iranian investor linked to embezzlement and financial support for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The EU imposed similar sanctions on Momeni and other Iranian officials earlier this week.
Protests and Crackdown
The unrest began in late December over economic grievances but expanded into broader challenges to Iran's theocratic government. Activists claim the crackdown has killed more than 6,000 protesters, though Iranian officials dismiss the demonstrators as "terrorists." The U.S. alleges Momeni's Law Enforcement Forces (LEF) are responsible for the deaths.
Escalating Tensions
The sanctions come as the Trump administration considers military options against Iran. President Trump warned on Truth Social that a "massive Armada" could be deployed if no nuclear deal is reached. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio revoked residence privileges for senior Iranian officials and their families in the U.S., citing their role in oppression.
Financial and Digital Targets
The Treasury Department also sanctioned two digital asset exchanges linked to Zanjani, accusing them of processing funds for IRGC-affiliated entities. The sanctions aim to disrupt financial networks supporting Iran's government.
International Response
The EU's sanctions align with U.S. actions, targeting officials involved in repression. The coordinated measures signal growing international pressure on Iran amid the ongoing protests.