US claims Iranian economy is near collapse amid ongoing conflict

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the Iranian economy is on the verge of collapse due to maritime blockades and intensifying economic sanctions. During an interview on Fox News, Bessent claimed the Iranian government is struggling to pay military personnel salaries, suggesting that the regime may eventually be forced to surrender.

Despite these claims of economic devastation, Bessent admitted to uncertainty regarding the ultimate conclusion of the conflict, which has entered its eighth month. He noted that Washington cannot predict whether economic pressure will lead to a change in government behavior, internal resistance, or shifts among security elites. The ongoing confrontation, which began following joint U.S. and Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026, continues to impact regional security in the Gulf and the global economy.