WASHINGTON – Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is hinting at unprecedented economic measures targeting Iran as negotiations continue to address the ongoing conflict that has lasted nearly six months.
“Keep an eye on this column for more updates next week, because we’re planning to implement actions against a country that have truly never been deployed in the context of economic isolation,” Bessent shared during his conversation with Newsmax’s Rob Schmidt on Thursday evening.
This year, Bessent has spearheaded “Operation Economic Fury,” aligning with the Pentagon’s “Operation Epic Fury.” He noted how his previous efforts contributed to an inflation crisis in Iran that triggered significant protests in December and January.
The Treasury secretary did not provide specifics on how the U.S. plans to further restrict Tehran after President Trump’s naval blockade, which effectively curtailed oil production, and increasingly stringent sanctions on money exchangers, cryptocurrencies, and other revenue streams.
Bessent’s department has legal limitations regarding the disclosure of certain sanctions, leaving the details of his upcoming strategies uncertain.
“The kinetic war wrapped up in just a few weeks, transitioning from widespread outrage to economic discontent. And then, at the president’s direction, we escalated our efforts,” he explained to Newsmax.
“I think our success stems from a strategic approach. Some might argue that Cuba and Venezuela endured for a long time, but when we imposed the blockade on Venezuela, it quickly fell apart,” he remarked.
“So, what we’re looking at is a blend of economic isolation that is unprecedented, alongside the continuation of a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz to ensure no goods can enter or exit Iranian ports,” Bessent stated.
He further criticized Democrats who believe Iran is stronger now, labeling their perspective as “ignorant and out of touch, showing a lack of understanding of the situation.”
