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US to impose 'economic fury' campaign on Iran: US Treasury Secretary
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says the US Navy will continue its blockade of Iranian ports under Trump’s directives, intensifying pressure on Iran’s oil exports and financial networks.
22.04.2026
By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen English
Source:https://english.almayadeen.net/news/politics/us-to-impose--economic-fury--campaign-on-iran--us-treasury-s
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated on Wednesday that the US Navy will continue enforcing a blockade on Iranian ports, acting under directives from US President Donald Trump. He framed the measure as part of a broader strategy aimed at restricting Iran’s ability to conduct maritime trade, which he described as a central component of the country’s economic system.
According to Bessent, limiting access to international shipping routes is intended to directly pressure Tehran’s core revenue streams, particularly those linked to energy exports.
Bessent highlighted Kharg Island, a key hub in Iran’s oil export infrastructure, warning that its storage capacity could reach critical limits within days if current restrictions persist.
He suggested that such pressure could force the shutdown of oil wells, given the constraints on storage and export capabilities.
Kharg Island remains one of the most significant logistical points for Iran’s crude oil shipments, making it central to the country’s export operations.
'Maximum pressure' and economic policy expansion
The Treasury Secretary also confirmed that the US will continue implementing what he described as a “maximum pressure” approach against Iran, aimed at limiting the country’s financial and trade capabilities.
He characterized the strategy as an “Economic Fury” campaign designed to disrupt Tehran’s ability to generate, transfer, and repatriate funds through international channels.
The policy is presented as part of a wider effort to intensify financial restrictions on Iran’s economy.
Sanctions enforcement and maritime compliance risks
Bessent further warned that individuals, companies, and vessels involved in facilitating what the US considers covert trade or financial activity linked to Iran may face sanctions. He added that the US continues to freeze funds it alleges are connected to Iran’s leadership, reinforcing ongoing financial pressure mechanisms.
The warning underscores heightened scrutiny on maritime trade routes and international shipping networks that may be involved in Iran-related commerce.
US threatens sanctions on foreign banks
In a related context, the US Department of the Treasury issued a warning last week to financial institutions in China, Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman over dealings with Iran, according to a letter reviewed by The Associated Press.
Washington signaled that banks in these regions could face punitive measures, including secondary sanctions, as part of its escalating economic pressure campaign against Tehran
The Treasury Department claimed these mechanisms enabled Iran to maintain access to the global financial system despite longstanding US sanctions, raising concerns in Washington over what it describes as "illicit activities".
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says the US Navy will continue its blockade of Iranian ports under Trump’s directives, intensifying pressure on Iran’s oil exports and financial networks.
22.04.2026
By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen English
Source:https://english.almayadeen.net/news/politics/us-
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated on Wednesday that the US Navy will continue enforcing a blockade on Iranian ports, acting under directives from US President Donald Trump. He framed the measure as part of a broader strategy aimed at restricting Iran’s ability to conduct maritime trade, which he described as a central component of the country’s economic system.
According to Bessent, limiting access to international shipping routes is intended to directly pressure Tehran’s core revenue streams, particularly those linked to energy exports.
Bessent highlighted Kharg Island, a key hub in Iran’s oil export infrastructure, warning that its storage capacity could reach critical limits within days if current restrictions persist.
He suggested that such pressure could force the shutdown of oil wells, given the constraints on storage and export capabilities.
Kharg Island remains one of the most significant logistical points for Iran’s crude oil shipments, making it central to the country’s export operations.
'Maximum pressure' and economic policy expansion
The Treasury Secretary also confirmed that the US will continue implementing what he described as a “maximum pressure” approach against Iran, aimed at limiting the country’s financial and trade capabilities.
He characterized the strategy as an “Economic Fury” campaign designed to disrupt Tehran’s ability to generate, transfer, and repatriate funds through international channels.
The policy is presented as part of a wider effort to intensify financial restrictions on Iran’s economy.
Sanctions enforcement and maritime compliance risks
Bessent further warned that individuals, companies, and vessels involved in facilitating what the US considers covert trade or financial activity linked to Iran may face sanctions. He added that the US continues to freeze funds it alleges are connected to Iran’s leadership, reinforcing ongoing financial pressure mechanisms.
The warning underscores heightened scrutiny on maritime trade routes and international shipping networks that may be involved in Iran-
US threatens sanctions on foreign banks
In a related context, the US Department of the Treasury issued a warning last week to financial institutions in China, Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman over dealings with Iran, according to a letter reviewed by The Associated Press.
Washington signaled that banks in these regions could face punitive measures, including secondary sanctions, as part of its escalating economic pressure campaign against Tehran
The Treasury Department claimed these mechanisms enabled Iran to maintain access to the global financial system despite longstanding US sanctions, raising concerns in Washington over what it describes as "illicit activities".