US expands sanctions on Iranian tycoon, targeting family members and global crypto operationsThe United States has intensified its financial pressure on Iranian businessman Babak Morteza Zanjani by imposing a new round of sanctions targeting his close associates, family members, and an extensive international network of cryptocurrency exchanges and commercial enterprises. The new sanctions designate four individuals and nine entities that US officials say played important roles in facilitating Zanjani’s global business operations. He first gained international attention for his role in helping Iran sell oil and move money during previous rounds of international sanctions. Despite his legal troubles, US authorities contend that Zanjani continued building an extensive commercial empire while relying increasingly on digital financial infrastructure. The sanctions underscore the increasing importance of cryptocurrency and digital financial platforms in modern sanctions enforcement.