Washington, United States – US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the Trump administration’s economic pressure campaign against Iran represents an “all-out effort,” emphasizing that Washington will continue expanding financial and trade measures to constrict Iran’s economy and push Tehran toward negotiations.
Expanding Sanctions Scope and New Sector Targets
In an interview with Fox News, Bessent explained that the US is actively considering additional sanctions against critical sectors supporting Iran’s trade, including aviation, maritime shipping, and digital assets. These measures build on the broader “Operation Economic Outcast” framework designed to apply secondary sanctions against entities facilitating sanctions evasion.
Bessent issued a direct warning to foreign companies and governments maintaining financial ties with Iran, urging all parties to stay away from supporting the regime. He noted that Washington is engaged in extensive discussions with international partners to disrupt illicit oil smuggling networks and money laundering operations.
Economic Asphyxiation and Negotiating Prospects
Ultimately, this economic escalation coincides with heightened military and maritime friction across the Middle East, as Washington leverages financial tools and maritime interception to achieve its goals while averting prolonged open conflict. Tehran now faces a choice between deepening global economic isolation or accepting a path back to structured negotiations.
