Following the U.S.-Israeli airstrikes in Tehran, Iranian crypto activity surged, with $10.3 million in bitcoin flowing out of exchanges as citizens sought to preserve value amid financial collapse.
Iran’s crypto economy surged past $7.78 billion in 2025, with Bitcoin emerging as both a financial lifeline for citizens and a strategic tool for the IRGC amid political turmoil and conflict.
As Iran imposes sweeping internet restrictions, protestors are turning to Bitcoin-linked apps like Bitchat and its localized fork Noghteha — leveraging mesh networks and cypherpunk ideals to maintain communication amid the blackout.
Iran reportedly passed a law enabling the use of bitcoin as payment for imports and establishing a framework for the asset class, including mining regulations.