Pompeo Claims Iran is Losing ‘Significant’ Funding Due to Aviation Sanctions
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo discussed the implications of a new initiative by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, dubbed ‘Operation Economic Outcast,’ aimed at cutting funding to Iran. He emphasized the effectiveness of sanctions, stating that the era of financial support for Iran is coming to an end. The goal of this economic strategy is to enforce total global isolation on Iran by ensuring its partners face consequences under strict U.S. sanctions.
Bessent recently announced that the U.S. plans to impose economic measures similar to those used in the military campaign that brought down Nazi Germany, targeting the Iranian regime. Experts believe this could lead to significant changes in the nearly five-decade-long dictatorship in Tehran. The pressure from the U.S. is expected to impact the economy and the approximately 90 million citizens living there.
Bessent described the initiative, likening it to a historical campaign against enemy positions, stating, “We aim to cut off every economic lifeline of this tyrannical regime until it is completely isolated.” He also pointed out Iran’s aggressive anti-American stance and its pursuit of nuclear capabilities.
Just hours before this announcement, Iran’s currency, the rial, experienced a steep decline, hitting an unprecedented low. This depreciation has made it increasingly difficult for Iranians to afford basic necessities.
Jonathan Harounoff, an expert on Iran, suggested that this pressure could destabilize the regime and perhaps ignite another uprising, though the timing of such events is uncertain. He noted that the Iranian government rules over a distressed population suffering from prolonged economic hardships, hinting that unrest is likely to occur again. The key question, however, remains whether international entities will choose to support the Iranian populace or maintain ties with the current regime.
Harounoff warned that external perceptions of regime change as an easy process are misleading. While only the Iranian people can instigate durable change, there are various ways that outside support could aid them in their pursuit of freedom, including raising awareness and providing internet access.
Jason Brodsky from United Against Nuclear Iran pointed out that this round of sanctions might differ due to its combination of economic and military pressure—a strategy never employed before by any U.S. administration. He noted that the current naval blockade against Iran is unprecedented and that the regime’s industrial capabilities have already suffered due to recent strikes.
Amidst these tensions, the Iranian government has intensified its crackdown on dissent, executing activists while censoring internet access. Brodsky acknowledged that the regime appears desperate, as internal strife grows more acute with each passing day.
However, skepticism remains regarding whether these economic pressures can trigger a mass uprising. Alireza Nader expressed doubts, stating that starving the populace might not lead to the desired American victory, given the regime’s history of brutal suppression. He believes previous movements, particularly the ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ protests, had greater potential for change before the current conflict disrupted activities.
Beni Sabti noted ongoing protests in Iran related to delayed salaries and pension issues, adding that public discontent stems primarily from economic struggles. The violence against demonstrators earlier this year has dampened enthusiasm for uprisings, although the potential for renewed protests remains if conditions worsen.
During his remarks, Treasury Secretary Bessent highlighted payroll issues, advising soldiers loyal to the regime to reconsider their loyalty as their paychecks dwindle. He referenced historical moments, like the fall of the Berlin Wall, emphasizing that a change in mindset among ordinary soldiers could lead to pivotal transformations.
