Trump Has Imposed Sanctions On 18 Iranian Banks
The administration of US President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on virtually the entire financial sector of Iran, the sanctions decided by the US concern 18 Iranian banks. But in particular mean that foreign non-Iranian financial institutions may be affected if they trade with Iranian banks.
The Iranian financial sector is thus losing access to the international financial system.
"Our sanctions will continue until Iran ends its support for terrorist activities and stops its nuclear program. However, today's steps mean that humanitarian transactions in support of the Iranian people will continue to be allowed," said US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.
Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has reacted angrily to the sanctions, calling them a "crime against humanity" during the global crisis.
"During the COVID-19 pandemic, the US regime wants to destroy our remaining channels for payments for food and medicine," the minister said on Twitter.