US imposes sanctions on 35 entities for aiding Iran’s shadow banking architecture; Warns businesses on Iranian airlines risks.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has designated 35 entities involved in Iran's shadow banking, emphasizing the need to clamp down on networks enabling sanctions evasion and supporting terrorism.
The sanctions targeted financial movements facilitating the Iranian regime's military and terror operations.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted that these networks are crucial for Iran's armed forces, stating, “Iran's shadow banking system serves as a critical financial lifeline for its armed forces.”
These sanctions fall under Executive Order 13902, and follow up on the broader “Economic Fury” campaign aimed at limiting Iran's financial activities.
The Treasury has sanctioned about 1,000 Iran-related entities since February 2025, aiming to block their U.S. assets.
Any U.S. entity that enables these networks risks severe penalties.
Bessent also cautioned businesses that “Doing business with sanctioned Iranian airlines risks exposure to U.S. sanctions.”
As commercial flights from Tehran resume, officials are particularly cautious of financial institutions' participation.
The sanctions message extends globally, as financial institutions face considerable risks when engaging with Iranian entities, which have been associated with illicit fund transfers.
The designations included UK-based Shuqun LTD, identified for transferring over $70 million related to Iranian oil in 2024.
This ongoing operation is a part of broader efforts to choke off financial lifelines supporting terrorism and instability across the region.

The U.S. has imposed sanctions on 35 entities for their involvement in Iran's shadow banking, aimed at cutting off tens of billions of dollars tied to sanctions evasion. The Treasury warns businesses engaging with Iranian airlines could face severe U.S. sanctions as commercial flights resume from Tehran.