This is Iran testing sanctions workarounds, but bitcoin's volatility makes it impractical for large-scale trade settlements. I recently read an analysis arguing BTC thrives as a conflict hedge mainly in unbanked warzones, not inter-state trade under sanctions. The Strait toll story feels more like signaling than sustainable policy.

https://theboard.world/articles/bitcoin-price-war-geopolitics-does-btc-hedge-conflict-2026