Iran War And Hormuz Blockade

Treasury Chief Bessent touted the Iran port blockade during live testimony on the Treasury budget request before a Senate committee. She appeared to defend the policy as part of the department's broader efforts to use financial and trade tools against Tehran. The hearing, streamed live by PBS, focused on funding priorities and enforcement authorities the Treasury seeks in the coming fiscal year.

Sen. Chris Murphy said he "should give up on sarcasm" after a one-word post about an Iran blockade drew White House backlash. He posted the single-word message earlier this week on social media, prompting swift criticism from the White House and other officials. Murphy acknowledged the reaction and wrote that he "should give up on sarcasm" after critics said the timing and tone undermined sensitive diplomacy.