Bessent Signals Wider U.S. Sanctions Push Against Iran

The Trump administration was considering a broader set of sanctions targets as part of its effort to pressure Iran’s economy, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on September 2, 2026. His comments pointed beyond Iranian banks to commercial and financial networks that could help Tehran maintain economic ties abroad. 12

The sectors Bessent said could be targeted

In a Fox News interview after a G20 gathering in North Carolina, Bessent identified airlines, the maritime industry and digital assets as possible targets for further action. He also said aircraft-leasing companies were under review, expanding the potential scope to firms that help supply or finance aviation operations. 2

The remarks followed Bessent’s September 1 statement that the United States was likely to announce sanctions against an Iranian bank that week, with another bank measure expected the following week. 1

Taken together, the comments suggested that the administration was examining several channels through which Iran could conduct trade, obtain services, move funds or sustain links with foreign businesses.

A warning to governments and companies supporting Tehran

Asked about Russian support for Iran after President Vladimir Putin backed Tehran, Bessent directed his message not only at Russia but at all potential supporters: “stay away.” He said the quickest way to end the conflict would be for no one to provide support to the Iranian regime. 2

Bessent also said the United States was having “fulsome” talks with anyone supporting Iran and would “systematically” remove bad actors. That framing indicated that Washington’s pressure campaign was aimed at external networks as well as Iran itself, including companies and financial channels that facilitate business with Tehran. 2

What the comments meant

Bessent did not announce new sanctions against every sector he named. Rather, he described them as possible targets in an expanding economic campaign. The immediate, more specific step he had outlined was potential action against additional Iranian banks. 12

For airlines, aircraft lessors, shipping businesses and digital-asset participants, the practical message was that dealings connected to Iran could receive greater U.S. scrutiny as the administration pursued its stated goal of reducing the regime’s external economic support. 2