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OFACSanctions / OFACAugust 27, 2026

OFAC Publishes New Sector Determination Under Iran Executive Order 13902

OFAC has formally published in the Federal Register a sector determination issued under Executive Order 13902, which authorizes broad sanctions on sectors of the Iranian economy. Although the determination was previously posted on OFAC's website, its Federal Register publication gives it broader legal notice and reaffirms its binding effect. Compliance teams must ensure their sanctions screening programs block transactions involving any newly designated Iranian sectors and related parties.

What to do

  • Review the full text of the EO 13902 sector determination on OFAC's website, confirm your sanctions screening lists and filters are updated to capture any entities or sectors covered, and document the review in your sanctions compliance program records.

Who this affects

Crypto ExchangeCrypto CustodianMoney Services BusinessPayments CompanyFintech / NeobankBank / Credit UnionTrust CompanyBroker-Dealer / RIA

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Source

Read the official publication

This radar entry is educational and does not constitute legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and grounded in the linked official source; always verify against the primary source and consult qualified legal counsel for jurisdiction-specific guidance.

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