Amid growing threats from Iran, Bessent moved to a military base, sources say
Relocation follows security concerns
The scope and seriousness of the Iranian threats have not been made clear, and the Trump administration has not described them. A source said a January 2025 media report about the location of Bessent’s home heightened security concerns, though the relocation took place only recently.
Other officials also on bases
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are also living on military bases while in Washington. Bessent is the latest senior administration official to relocate for safety.
Treasury vows pressure on Iran
A Treasury Department spokesperson said Bessent would not be deterred by threats from Iran’s government and would continue Operation Economic Outcast and the blockade. The spokesperson said the efforts were collapsing Iran’s economy. Bessent has led an economic pressure campaign against Iran, including sanctions. In September, he said the sanctions were intended to “economically asphyxiate this regime.”
Secret Service did not comment
The Secret Service, which protects Bessent, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The New York Times was the first to report his relocation.
Key points
- Sources say Bessent moved from Georgetown to a Washington military base in recent weeks.
- The administration has not disclosed the nature or severity of the threats from Iran.
- Hegseth, Rubio and other senior officials have also lived on bases or in protected housing.
- A Treasury spokesperson said Bessent would continue economic pressure measures against Iran.