US Iran Sanctions January 2026: Treasury Targets Ali Larijani Amid Military Tensions

The world held its breath as a US strike seemed imminent. Instead, Washington deployed its economic arsenal. On January 15, 2026, the US Department of the Treasury announced fresh sanctions against high-ranking Iranian officials and energy entities in response to the violent crackdown on protesters.

Inside the US Iran Sanctions January 2026 Measures

The latest penalties specifically target Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC). Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent labeled these officials as the "architects" of Tehran's brutal response to nationwide demonstrations. Beyond political figures, the Treasury also blacklisted 18 firms and individuals involved in Iran's energy exports, aiming to choke off the regime's primary revenue stream.

War of Words: Trump vs. Larijani

While President Donald Trump recently softened his rhetoric following reports that executions of protesters had stopped, the tension remains palpable. Larijani struck back on X, accusing Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being the "main killers" of the Iranian people. This follows a period where Iran shut its airspace and Israel opened bomb shelters in anticipation of a direct conflict.

The human cost of the unrest is staggering. Activist groups believe thousands have died since the start of the year. In contrast, Tehran claims over 100 security officers have been killed by "armed rioters" backed by foreign actors. An ongoing internet blackout continues to hamper independent verification of these figures.