US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has reportedly left his residence in Washington and begun living at a military base due to death threats originating from Iran and mounting security concerns.
The news of Bessent's decision to move was first reported by The New York Times. According to Reuters, a senior US intelligence official also warned in an intelligence briefing sent to the Trump administration at the end of last month that Iran's plans for attacks against US personnel and American citizens had reached an “advanced stage.”
It is stated that images of the 12 million 500 thousand dollar mansion in Georgetown, which Bessent purchased shortly after taking office as Treasury Secretary in January 2025, contributed to the rise in security concerns. It was noted that the aerial footage published by The Wall Street Journal allowed for the identification of the home's location.
A KEY FIGURE IN IRAN POLICY
Bessent is among the prominent figures in the sanctions and economic pressure campaign conducted by the Trump administration against Iran, which is referred to as “Operation Economic Isolation.” With this policy, Washington aims to force Tehran to stop attacks on maritime shipping and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Following the war that began with the attacks launched by the US and Israel on Iran on February 28, concerns that Iran might retaliate have led to increased security measures in Washington. While it is stated that Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei and members of his family were killed in the attacks, it is reported that Tehran continues to resist.
A spokesperson for the US Department of the Treasury stated that there would be no backing down from the policy despite the threats against Bessent. The spokesperson said, “The Secretary will not back down in the face of threats from the Iranian regime. He will continue with determination to implement Operation Economic Isolation, which is collapsing the Iranian economy, and to maintain the blockade.”
Iran, for its part, denies allegations that it is planning attacks on US soil. US officials speaking to The New York Times also assessed that Iran's capacity to carry out large-scale attacks within the US and in overseas territories is limited.
News Source: 12punto
