Scott Bessent calls out 'terrible framing'

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pushed back during an interview about sanctions and pricing of Iranian oil, calling the host Kristen Welker's framing "terrible.".

Bessent disputed the host's claim that lifting sanctions on Iranian oil stored on tankers could result in over $14 billion in revenue for Iran, stating the facts were different. He corrected the framing by explaining the oil was already slated for sale to China at a discounted price.

Bessent noted that current oil prices remain below $100 per barrel, a situation less favorable for Iran than a scenario where prices exceed $150. He explained that factors like approximately 140 million barrels of oil in transit contributed to smooth market supply. Bessent stated that facilitating market supply aids in stabilizing oil prices in discussions concerning Iranian oil sanctions.