US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has sharply criticised the leadership in Iran, labelling them as “rats in a sewer pipe.” He commented on the governing class in Tehran, suggesting they are disconnected from reality and unaware of the evolving international landscape. Bessent emphasised that the global community has turned against Iran, indicating a shift in diplomatic sentiment.

While articulating his views on social media platform X, Bessent elaborated on the challenges facing Iran. He noted the inadequate understanding of the situation outside their governance and the ramifications resulting from international actions. He specifically referenced the control the United States exerts over the Strait of Hormuz, which is vital for oil shipping routes.

US Control Over Strategic Waterway

Bessent asserted that the United States maintains complete dominance over the Strait of Hormuz, labelling it the world’s most critical chokepoint for oil transport. He claimed that the ongoing blockade will persist until the preconditions for what he termed “Freedom of Navigation” are reinstated, conditions that were in place before February 27.

He further provided a list of challenges faced by Iran, including a scarcity of hard currency, specifically the US dollar, as well as existing food and fuel rationing. This statement comes in the context of growing tensions and economic hardship within Iran, highlighting the pressure placed on its government.

The US Treasury Department’s recent actions have included warning shipping entities of potential sanctions if they engage in payments to Iran for safe passage through this critical waterway. This advisory has raised significant concerns about the continuation of trade and shipping operations in the region.

Iranian Response to US Allegations

In response to Bessent’s comments, the Iranian Embassy in South Africa sharply rebuffed the US Treasury Secretary’s statements. The embassy’s social media expression conveyed a strong rejection of Bessent’s viewpoint by asserting that the US has lost both military and cyber confrontations with Iran. They labelled Bessent’s comments as emanating from a position of pain rather than a stance of triumph.

The Iranian diplomatic representatives suggested that the US is misguided in its belief of holding a superior strategic position. This emotive retort reflects broader grievances held by Iran regarding perceived external aggression and economic sanctions, detailing the ongoing animosity between the two nations.

Since April 13, the US has been implementing a naval blockade against Iran following unsuccessful negotiations in Islamabad aimed at resolving the war. These developments underscore the escalating tensions in the region and the complex nature of US-Iran relations, where military, economic, and diplomatic factors converge.

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