UPDATE: The U.S. has just escalated sanctions against Iranian officials amid rising tensions and the looming possibility of military action. In a dramatic announcement on Friday, January 29, 2026, the Treasury Department revealed targeted sanctions aimed at key figures in Iran’s regime, including Eskandar Momeni Kalagari, Iran’s Minister of the Interior, who oversees the brutal Law Enforcement Forces (LEF) responsible for the deaths of thousands of peaceful protestors.
This urgent move by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) comes as President Donald Trump hints at potential military strikes against Iran if a nuclear deal is not negotiated soon. In a provocative statement on Truth Social, Trump declared, “A massive Armada is heading to Iran,” referencing the deployment of the Aircraft Carrier Abraham Lincoln and emphasizing the U.S. military’s readiness to act decisively.
The sanctions also target Babak Morteza Zanjani, an Iranian investor linked to massive embezzlement of national oil funds, and two digital asset exchanges that facilitated transactions for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The announcement underscores the U.S. administration’s commitment to counteract Iranian aggression and support for terrorism.
As military options are being expanded, reports indicate that Trump has received a new list of potential actions that could include direct strikes against Iranian nuclear and missile facilities. Officials have confirmed that these measures aim to cripple the regime’s capacity to suppress dissent and further its nuclear ambitions.
The situation remains fluid, with Iran responding defiantly to U.S. pressure. Iranian officials have threatened retaliation, stating they have “fingers on the trigger,” indicating their readiness to respond to any military intervention.
As the international community watches closely, this escalation could have profound implications for global security and stability in the region. The Trump administration is poised to make further announcements, and all eyes will be on upcoming negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.
