22/03/2026
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22/03/2026
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u.s. treasury secretary scott bessent
WASHINGTON, (AP) Mar 22: U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said President Donald Trump is using “the only language the Iranians understand” by threatening to strike Iran’s power plants unless Tehran fully reopens the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking on NBC’s Meet the Press, Bessent said the administration is prepared to take all necessary steps in its confrontation with Iran. “He will take whatever steps it takes,” Bessent said, adding that escalation and de-escalation strategies can go hand in hand. “Sometimes you have to escalate to de-escalate.”
Meanwhile, Mike Waltz, speaking on Fox News, defended the threat, arguing that Iran’s infrastructure—largely controlled by the Revolutionary Guard—supports its military operations. He suggested potential strikes could begin with one of Iran’s major power plants, though no specific facility was identified.
The remarks highlight how the Trump administration is framing its approach to the conflict, signaling readiness for escalation while maintaining pressure on Tehran to reopen a vital global oil route.
Legal experts note that under international law, civilian infrastructure such as power plants can only be targeted if the anticipated military advantage outweighs potential harm to civilians, underscoring the high stakes of any such action.
