Iran to seize assets of nationals aiding US, Israel

2026-03-09 - 08:42

Tehran has announced plans to confiscate the assets of Iranian nationals residing overseas who are convicted of cooperating with the US and Israel, according to a statement released on Sunday by the country's Attorney General's Office. The office referenced legislation passed in October, which mandates the seizure of all property for those aiding Israel, the US, or other hostile entities, as reported by the state-run Press TV. The legal action falls under Article 19 of the Islamic Penal Code and can carry the death penalty for offenses deemed threatening to national security. Khamenei's son appointed as new supreme leader The announcement comes amid escalating conflict, with Iranian authorities reporting that over 1,200 people, including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have been killed since the US and Israel launched a joint military campaign on Feb. 28. More than 10,000 others have been injured in the strikes. In response, Tehran has launched drone and missile attacks targeting Israel and Gulf nations hosting American military assets. Meanwhile, Iran's Assembly of Experts has selected Khamenei's son, Mojtaba, as the country's new supreme leader, solidifying the clerical establishment's grip on power during a period of heightened regional tension. Tehran retaliates with strikes amid leadership transition The asset confiscation measure underscores Tehran's determination to counter perceived foreign interference as it navigates both a leadership transition and an active conflict. The Attorney General's Office emphasized that any operational support for the "Zionist regime" or hostile governments like the US constitutes a crime against Iran's security, warranting the harshest penalties. As the war enters its second week, the combination of internal legal crackdowns and external military retaliation signals Iran's intent to project strength on all fronts.