Washington, Jan 16 (V7N) — The United States has imposed sanctions on several aides and close associates of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, accusing them of playing a role in the violent crackdown on anti-government protests, according to a report by The Associated Press (AP).

Among those sanctioned is Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), along with a number of senior political and security officials. The sanctions were imposed by the Trump administration, which alleged that the targeted individuals were directly involved in suppressing protesters.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Besant announced the decision in a video statement. However, the US authorities did not disclose the full list of officials affected by the sanctions.

Under the measures, all assets of the sanctioned individuals held in the United States will be frozen, and any business transactions with US citizens or entities will be prohibited.

The protests in Iran began in December, initially triggered by rising inflation and economic hardship, but later evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations. According to human rights organizations, approximately 3,500 people have been killed during the recent unrest.

The sanctions mark a further escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran, particularly over human rights concerns and Iran’s handling of domestic dissent.

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