Ankara: Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf on Thursday strongly criticized US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent following accusations that Tehran is allocating significant resources abroad while its citizens face economic hardships. Qalibaf took to US social media platform X to counter Bessent's claims, suggesting that Washington should prioritize spending on domestic issues rather than on international commitments.

According to Anadolu Agency, Qalibaf's remarks were a direct response to Bessent's statements which accused the Iranian government of misallocating funds that could otherwise support its struggling populace. Bessent had posted, "As the Iranian people struggle to afford basic necessities, the corrupt regime continues to squander enormous sums abroad." He further urged the Iranian regime to redirect its foreign expenditures to benefit its citizens.

In a candid retort, Qalibaf suggested that the United States should reconsider its own spending priorities. "Instead of funneling billions to its terrorist proxy, Israel, and 750 bases, this failing empire could spend that cash on its own people," Qalibaf wrote, urging Bessent to reassess his position by saying, "Scotty, man, your credibility is on the line. Do something."

This exchange occurs against the backdrop of a broader geopolitical context where, in June, Iran and the US, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, signed a 14-point memorandum of understanding in Islamabad. The agreement aimed to address hostilities initiated by US and Israeli actions against Iran, with provisions to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz, lift a US naval blockade, and commence a 60-day negotiation process. Iran has since accused the US of not upholding its obligations under the memorandum, maintaining that the strait will remain restricted until the US meets its commitments.