Treasury Secretary Bessent says US will 'squash' Iranian economy, collapse 'murderous regime'

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent declared during a CNBC interview on Thursday that the United States intends to dismantle the Iranian regime by imposing severe economic sanctions. He asserted, "You are either with us or against us," emphasizing that the objective is to collapse the economy of this "murderous regime." Bessent elaborated that the US would intensify economic pressure on Iran, in line with President Donald Trump's recent statements on Truth Social.

Trump had declared that Iran would face "an ECONOMIC D-DAY," a phrase echoed by Bessent. The Secretary also announced a press conference on Monday to provide further details on the economic pressure measures. He stressed that any American allies engaged in business with Iran, such as money transfers or oil purchases, would face full US government enforcement against them.

Bessent dismissed previous reports suggesting that such measures have historically failed, asserting that the US is employing a "one-two punch" with a blockade and the toughest sanctions in history. He reiterated Trump's claim of US control over the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the US has the capability to maintain energy flow through the southern lane.

Bessent added that this coordinated global economic isolation will be unprecedented in history, and Iran's regime will ultimately collapse under the pressure.