US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent moves to military base amid Iranian threats
Bessent confirmed his relocation following death threats and criticised a news outlet for publishing a geolocatable image of his home.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has relocated from his Washington residence to a military base following death threats from Iran, according to reports by ANI, The Tribune and Deccan Chronicle. The move follows instructions from the Secret Service.
Speaking to CNBC, Bessent stated that the threats against him and other cabinet members indicate that the US economic pressure campaign against Tehran, known as "Operation Economic Outcast", is working. He described the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a "dangerous cornered animal" due to financial isolation.
Bessent also accused The Wall Street Journal of endangering his safety. He claimed the publication printed a photograph of his Georgetown property with geolocation on it the day he purchased it, despite his team pleading with the editor not to disclose the location.
US President Donald Trump issued a warning to Tehran on Thursday, stating that those responsible for targeting American officials "will not exist any longer". Trump said he would not hesitate to use military force to prevent Iran from threatening US allies and maritime interests.
In a phone interview with Salem News Channel, Trump said he would consider it a defeat if the current Iranian leadership remained in power by the end of his presidency. He also asserted that the US maintains control of the Hormuz Strait.