The Journal. · Tuesday, August 25, 2026
The president's initial belief that the conflict with Iran would mirror the swift military action seen in Venezuela has not materialized. Six months into the war, the administration is now shifting focus to economic pressure, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant leading the charge.
“You know, the president, he, he seemed to believe that the conflict with Iran would mirror what happened with Venezuela as an example, right?”
“You just go in there, hit the country, take out their leadership. And unfortunately, for the president, that has not happened here.”
“And that's why I think he's going with Scott Bessant's ideas at this point.”