Cooper Says Iran Blockade Has Cut Off $25 Billion in Oil Exports
The U.S. Central Command chief says the blockade is squeezing Iran’s finances as workers and security forces go without pay.
Key takeaways
- Brad Cooper said the blockade has prevented at least $25 billion in Iranian crude oil exports.
- Cooper said nearly $350 million in cryptocurrency assets had been frozen.
U.S. Central Command chief Adm. Brad Cooper said a naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting at least $25 billion worth of crude oil.
In a video message posted Friday, Cooper also said the U.S. and its partners had frozen nearly $350 million in cryptocurrency assets. He said Iran had withheld salaries, pensions and benefits from workers in several sectors, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Cooper said the financial pressure was also affecting Iran-aligned militia groups, with reports that some were withholding payments to send money back to the IRGC. He pointed to renewed Iranian attacks on commercial shipping and growing unrest in southeastern provinces.
This article was produced with the help of AI technology. Based on reporting by the outlets listed above.
