U.S. Targets Iran’s Rail and Shadow Banking Networks as Maritime Blockade Tightens

The Trump administration expanded its economic campaign against Iran on Thursday, targeting the country’s rail system, major industrial companies and a Russia-linked shadow banking network that U.S. officials say has helped Tehran move oil revenues and other funds around international sanctions.

The U.S. Treasury Department announced two separate actions under its Operation Economic Outcast campaign, widening sanctions beyond Iran’s petroleum industry as the U.S. military blockade continues to restrict maritime trade.

Treasury said Iran has increasingly turned to rail transportation and alternative financial networks to sustain regional trade and move oil as conventional maritime routes have come under pressure.