Yellen states US will implement sanctions to disrupt Iran’s ‘malign’ behavior

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has issued a stern warning about Iran’s recent attack on Israel and its financing of militant groups in the Middle East, stating that these actions threaten stability in the region and could have economic repercussions.

Yellen, speaking at a news conference during the International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings in Washington, emphasized the need to disrupt Iran’s malign activities through financial sanctions. Since President Biden took office in January 2021, the Treasury Department has targeted over 500 individuals and entities linked to terrorism and terrorist financing by the Iranian regime and its proxies.

The Treasury Secretary highlighted Iran’s support for groups like Hamas, the Houthis in Yemen, Hizballah in Lebanon, and Iraqi militia groups, noting that these actions pose a threat to regional stability. She also condemned Iran’s recent attack on Israel, which saw over 300 drones and missiles launched in retaliation for an alleged Israeli airstrike.

Yellen stressed the importance of using economic tools to pressure Hamas while ensuring that sanctions do not hinder life-saving aid to the Palestinian people. She called for urgent action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over 2 million people are facing acute food insecurity and widespread displacement.

In addition to targeting extremist violence in the West Bank, Yellen mentioned that the U.S. is supporting IMF programs in Jordan and Egypt to promote stability in the region. The Treasury Secretary’s remarks underscore the ongoing efforts to counter Iran’s destabilizing activities and support peace and security in the Middle East.