Bitcoin Skyrockets to 105B Rials in Iran Amid Countrywide Tension

Bitcoin (BTC) price in Iran surged to as high as 105 billion Rials as the nation’s currency collapsed, signaling a severe economic and political crisis. The Rial has lost 96% of its value in the past month, forcing citizens to turn to digital currencies to protect their savings.

Bitcoin now trades at IRR 104,506,811,500—up 2,650% in a month, according to market data. 

Reports indicate that the black market rate, at which citizens can get one US dollar, now costs 1.5 million Rials, rendering banking almost pointless. The online shutdowns in the country have not helped either, as people continue to voice their concerns about the increased prices of food as well as subsidies.

Adding to Iran’s internal problems, international tensions are making things worse. The U.S. President Donald Trump hit countries trading with Iran with 25% tariffs, but also hinted at a possible deal. Analysts say unpaid salaries and struggling government institutions are also weakening loyalty among security forces. 

"Effective immediately, any Country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25% on any and all business being done with the United States of America. This Order is final and conclusive…." – PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP pic.twitter.com/UQ1ylPezs9

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 12, 2026

As a result, many Iranians are turning to cryptocurrency to protect their money and keep access to financial services despite sanctions and economic chaos.

Cryptocurrency adoption accelerates amid sanctions

Iran started turning to Bitcoin and other digital currencies in 2017 after sanctions blocked access to global banks. In 2019, the government allowed cryptocurrency mining to make money but set strict rules, forcing miners to sell their coins directly to the Central Bank. High electricity costs and weak infrastructure made legal mining hard, so many miners moved underground to continue operating.

Exchanges like Nobitex became popular in Iran, but the government kept a close watch. Then the Central Bank stopped foreign-mined cryptocurrencies from being used locally, so many people rely on VPNs to access international platforms. Because of this, Bitcoin gives Iranians a way to get around restrictions and protect their money as the Rial loses value fast.

Blockchain and defense industry integration

Iran is using blockchain technology to keep its defense industry running despite being cut off from global trade. The Ministry of Defense’s export agency, Mindex, now accepts cryptocurrency for advanced weapons like Shahed drones, Emad missiles, and Soleimani-class warships. They use secure systems to make sure deliveries happen even under international sanctions, showing how Tehran is relying on digital currency to manage state operations.

Projects like the Borna blockchain and Kuknos Network show that the Iranian government wants to use blockchain while keeping tight control over digital money. So, cryptocurrency isn’t just helping regular people protect their savings—it’s also helping state groups, like the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), work around financial restrictions.

Market dynamics and recent threats

Iran’s crypto market is also facing severe challenges. Gonjeshke Darande, a group, in June 2025, hacked Nobitex, stealing $90 million. Iran’s share in the global mining of Bitcoin has fallen from 4.5% in 2021 to 3.1% in 2024 because of the presence of high energy prices and strict regulations. However, so far, cryptocurrencies have become a significant way for people and Iran-related groups to safeguard their money, given the collapse of the Rial.

Cryptocurrency also gives the IRGC a way to move money across borders without relying on banks, helping them dodge sanctions. People linked to Iran’s sanctioned networks reportedly use local exchanges to move funds, proving that digital currencies support both everyday citizens and strategic state operations.

Bitcoin’s rise in Iran isn’t just about money—it shows how the country’s economy, politics, and technology are all colliding. People are buying digital currencies to protect their savings, while the government uses blockchain to keep its military and financial systems running.

Also Read: Bitwise’s Matt Hougan Calls Bitcoin in 401(k) Ban Ridiculous

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