U.S. Treasury Secretary Defends Military Strategy Against Iran
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Sunday supported ongoing military actions targeting Iranian infrastructure following a joint U.S.-Israeli operation that began in February. He stated, “Sometimes you have to escalate to de-escalate,” emphasizing the importance of tough measures in the current geopolitical climate.
Trump Issues Ultimatum to Iran
His remarks came shortly after President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, warning Iranian leaders they had 48 hours to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face a U.S. military response that could “attack and destroy Iran’s various power plants.”
Bessent Defends Trump’s Tough Rhetoric
Bessent further defended Trump’s aggressive rhetoric, arguing that it is “the only language Iranians understand.” This statement followed a warning from Iranian military officials that any attack on their oil infrastructure would result in reciprocal actions against U.S. and regional assets.
Iran Responds to U.S. Military Threats
Colonel Ebrahim Zolfakari, a spokesperson for Iran’s military command, cautioned that a U.S. strike on Iran’s fuel and energy infrastructure would also impact American and allied information technology systems. He stressed that military engagement would not go unanswered.
U.S. Strategy on Oil Infrastructure
In recent weeks, the U.S. has refrained from targeting Iran’s oil infrastructure, amid escalating military confrontations. President Trump, in an interview with NBC News, claimed U.S. forces had “completely destroyed” key assets on Kharg Island, while abstaining from damaging energy pipelines to avoid prolonged reconstruction efforts.
Bessent Discusses Possible Military Involvement
During the same discussion, Bessent expressed his views on the significance of Kharg Island as a strategic asset, hinting that “military assets on Kharg Island have been destroyed.” He indicated that making the site a U.S. property remains a possibility, stating that “all options are on the table,” including the deployment of U.S. troops.
Treasury’s Recent Sanctions Adjustments
Bessent also addressed the Treasury Department’s recent decision to ease certain sanctions against Iran, which facilitates the sale of stranded Iranian crude oil at sea. He noted this adjustment aims to alleviate rising energy prices, enabling “approximately 140 million barrels of oil to enter global markets” despite skepticism from experts about the U.S. supporting Iran during wartime.
Criticism from Congressional Leaders
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) criticized Bessent’s remarks, asserting that the administration is out of touch with economic realities as the war’s escalation leads to soaring prices in the U.S. He likened the current situation to past conflicts, emphasizing the need for a strategic de-escalation rather than expansion of military actions.
