[Low-Cost Mining in Iran and Bitcoin's Escape Amidst War] The cost of mining in Iran is approximately $1,300, far below the global average of $9,000, due to the use of surplus natural gas for power generation. Institutions like the Iranian Revolutionary Guard profit from mining through low electricity costs. A Chainalysis report shows that related wallets are expected to receive over $3 billion in crypto assets by 2025. Chinese miners once flocked to Iran, but due to tightened policies and partnership disputes, most left with losses. After the Tehran airstrike at the end of February 2026, withdrawal volumes on the cryptocurrency exchange Nobitex surged by 700%, but due to a 99% internet connectivity disruption, trading volumes quickly shrank by 80%. Bitcoin has become a lifeline for civilians amidst the chaos of war, but actual asset transfers remain limited.