Iran dismisses US 'economic D-Day' threat as admission of defeat

Iran dismissed the US threat of an "economic D-Day" as an admission of defeat, ahead of Washington detailing the campaign Monday, nearly six months into the Middle East war. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the plan to cut Iran's remaining "lifelines," claiming Washington destroyed nearly 100% of its military factories and ended its nuclear program. Tehran's deputy foreign minister questioned why such action would be needed if these goals were achieved. The conflict began February 28 with an Israeli-American offensive. Iran has blocked the strategic Strait of Hormuz, spiking oil prices. Tehran faces 66% inflation and a collapsing currency, while the US has imposed sanctions on its ports.