Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent faces protests during Congressional testimony

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent faced protests during his testimony before the House Financial Services Committee. Demonstrators interrupted his opening remarks for the annual statement on the state of the international financial system, specifically targeting U.S. sanctions against Iran and Cuba.

Protesters shouted slogans calling for an end to sanctions, claiming they cause civilian deaths in both nations. Some demonstrators labeled the Secretary a ‘war criminal’ and held signs stating that ‘U.S. sanctions are killing Cubans.’

During the session, Bessent addressed questions regarding rising bond yields, national debt, and the cost of living. Regarding Iran, Bessent defended the administration's stance, stating that the strength of the U.S. economy has enabled the ‘greatest isolation campaign in history’ against Iran and its supporters. He remarked that the U.S. is no longer merely managing the Iranian threat but is actively ‘eliminating’ it.