TLDR:
- The U.S. Treasury is tracking the diversion of $1.5 billion into Dubai-based accounts.
- Iran’s ruling class, including relatives of Khamenei, is leading these transfers.
- Washington warns of the intensive use of cryptocurrencies to evade global sanctions.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that Washington is monitoring a massive capital flight from Iran to Dubai, a move that has sparked international alarm. This outflow of capital, exceeding $1.5 billion, reportedly responds to growing fears over internal instability and potential military actions.
Regarding this, Israel’s Channel 14 reported that the funds were moved to escrow accounts in the United Arab Emirates. Among those allegedly involved is the son of Iran’s leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, suggesting a strategic withdrawal of assets by the ruling elite.
Extreme Vigilance Over Digital Assets and Banking
The Secretary stated that the U.S. government is tracking every cent moving through the traditional banking system. However, he also emphasized that a significant portion of this capital flight from Iran to Dubai is being executed through digital assets.
Currently, the use of cryptocurrencies is the preferred tool for Iranian authorities seeking to evade existing economic sanctions. Consequently, the Treasury is actively working to identify and block these illicit transfers that defy international financial controls.
Despite the surveillance, Bessent clarified that any asset recovery process is strictly subject to specific legal frameworks. This means that even if movements are detected, law enforcement will depend on jurisdictional cooperation in each region.
In summary, the climate of tension in Tehran has been evidenced by this situation. Global investors remain watchful, as this flow of capital toward digital assets could influence liquidity and regulations within the Middle Eastern crypto market.
