US Launches Operation Economic Outcast to Isolate Iran

The United States has launched a sweeping new economic campaign to isolate Iran, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announcing Operation Economic Outcast on August 24, 2026. The initiative aims to sever Tehran's global financial connections by imposing severe sanctions on any country, company, or institution that continues doing business with the regime. Bessent described the operation as an "economic onslaught" and a "zero leakage strategy," targeting five key sectors: aviation, shipping, gold, technology, and digital assets. He warned that the U.S. would pursue secondary sanctions against foreign entities that help Iran maintain international trade.