According to a report by Al Jazeera on May 14, 2026, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the United States’ month-long blockade of Iranian ports has “been a resounding success” as it continues to apply severe pressure on Iran’s government. He said the restrictions are part of a wider strategy aimed at tightening economic conditions and limiting Tehran’s ability to sustain its regional influence and oil exports.………
In an interview with US news channel CNBC, Bessent said the most effective approach to Iran’s leadership is to “squeeze them economically”. He argued that sustained financial pressure would weaken the government’s operational capacity over time by restricting access to global trade routes and financial systems. According to him, the broader objective is to increase internal strain on state institutions through continued economic isolation.
Bessent further claimed that “None of their ships are getting out, none are coming in, so they’re not able to store oil on the waters, so they’re going to start shutting down production,” He suggested that the blockade has significantly disrupted Iran’s maritime trade, limiting its ability to export oil and maintain normal production levels. He also indicated that such constraints could have long-term consequences for the country’s energy sector.
“We believe we’re at the point where soldiers aren’t getting paid,” Bessent continued. He used the statement to illustrate what he described as growing financial stress within Iran’s government and security structure. He added that “They’re not able to replenish their weapons stocks from abroad. So I think that they are on their last legs.”
