U.S. Officials Say Economic Pressure on Iran May Be More Effective Than Military Action

Washington: U.S. officials believe that economic sanctions and financial pressure on Iran could prove more effective than military strikes in influencing Tehran’s decisions, according to a report by a U.S. broadcaster.

The report said Washington believes sustained economic pressure could play a key role in bringing Iran back to the negotiating table.

Citing senior U.S. administration officials, the report stated that intelligence assessments suggest Iran may face fuel shortages, the risk of large-scale bank withdrawals, and difficulties in paying its military personnel and allied fighters. Officials also said that U.S. sanctions and maritime restrictions have significantly increased financial pressure on the country.

One U.S. official reportedly claimed that Iran fears the U.S. Treasury Department more than the Department of Defense, reflecting the impact of financial measures on the Iranian economy.

However, the official also acknowledged that using economic pressure to secure an agreement with Iran could take longer than achieving objectives through a full-scale military campaign.

According to the report, Iran’s access to frozen overseas assets and the easing of economic sanctions remain central issues in ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran. The talks are aimed at turning the current pause in hostilities into a lasting ceasefire agreement.