Frozen Assets / Envato Market

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief

(Worthy News) – The United Arab Emirates is considering freezing billions of dollars in Iranian assets held within its financial system, a move that could severely restrict one of Tehran’s most important economic lifelines, according to a Wall Street Journal exclusive citing officials familiar with the discussions.

The potential action comes as tensions rise following Iranian drone and missile attacks targeting the U.A.E. Emirati officials have privately warned Tehran about the possible financial crackdown, though it remains unclear whether or when the government will act.

For years, the U.A.E.—particularly Dubai—has served as a major financial hub for Iranian businesses seeking to bypass Western sanctions. Analysts and U.S. Treasury officials say networks of front companies, currency exchanges, and shipping intermediaries have allowed Iran to continue selling oil abroad and move billions through global trade channels.

Officials are now reportedly considering several measures, including freezing assets tied to Iranian “shadow companies,” tightening controls on currency exchanges used to move funds outside formal banking systems, and targeting accounts linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Experts say even targeted restrictions could significantly damage Iran’s ability to access global markets. The Wall Street Journal reported that roughly $9 billion in transactions tied to clandestine Iranian financial activity passed through U.S. banking channels in 2024, with about 62% connected to U.A.E.-based firms.

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