U.S. Won’t Return to “Large-Scale” Iran Combat, Bessent Says

The United States is unlikely to restart large-scale military combat against Iran, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, even as Washington intensifies its economic pressure on Tehran. Bessent and President Donald Trump unveiled the new economic operation nearly six months into the Iran war, a conflict that continues without a clear end in sight. The shift in strategy signals a move away from major ground and air campaigns toward financial and trade restrictions. The announcement comes as the war’s duration and cost face growing scrutiny. By focusing on economic tools, the administration aims to weaken Iran’s ability to sustain its military efforts while avoiding a deeper U.S. troop commitment. Bessent did not specify which sanctions or financial measures would be introduced. He said only that the pressure campaign would be “stepped up” in the coming weeks. The conflict remains active, but the new approach suggests the White House is seeking a different path to end it.