Bessent Says US Offering Iran Carrots, There Are Sticks

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that negotiations with Iran are ongoing, describing the process as "going to be a process" during remarks at the Economic Club of New York on May 29, 2024. Bessent indicated that the United States is employing a strategy that includes both incentives and punitive measures in its dealings with Iran. He suggested that the US is offering "carrots" to encourage certain behaviors while also maintaining "sticks" to deter undesirable actions. The specific details of these carrots and sticks were not elaborated upon, but the statement implies a dual-pronged approach to diplomatic engagement with the nation. This approach aims to influence Iran's actions through a combination of positive reinforcement and the threat of consequences.