Iranian official threatens to strike US economic interests with 'intensity and force' as US Treasury Secretary claims blockade will 'crush failing Iranian economy'

On August 28, 2026, Iranian Supreme National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei issued a stark warning that Tehran would target US economic interests with 'intensity and force' if the maritime blockade persisted. The statement was reported by Middle East Eye and Antara. Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen claimed in a separate statement that the blockade would 'crush the failing Iranian economy,' according to Middle East Eye. The two statements reflect a deepening economic and strategic rivalry between Iran and the United States.