U.S. Rep. Calls Bitcoin A 'Geopolitical Weapon' Used By Multiple Adversaries
The perception of Bitcoin (BTC) among top U.S. officials is undergoing a dramatic transformation, moving from a niche digital asset to a central element in national security discussions. A prominent Republican representative has boldly labeled it a "geopolitical weapon" wielded by various global adversaries, signaling a profound shift in its strategic evaluation.
Bitcoin's Ascent to National Security Status
U.S. Representative Lance Gooden (R-Texas) has asserted that Bitcoin's role has transcended mere financial speculation, evolving into a critical instrument in the hands of international adversaries. This perspective is firmly backed by Pentagon leadership. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed the Department of Defense's active involvement in classified Bitcoin operations, specifically aimed at counteracting "China's digital authoritarianism." Echoing this sentiment, Admiral Samuel Paparo, commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, highlighted Bitcoin's "incredible potential" in cybersecurity and its capacity for "power projection," revealing that the U.S. military actively operates a node on the Bitcoin network.
Adversaries Leveraging the Digital Frontier
Representative Gooden elaborated on various ways Bitcoin is allegedly being weaponized by hostile entities. He indicated that Iran is reportedly demanding Bitcoin as a toll for transit through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Furthermore, North Korea-linked hackers are exploiting the cryptocurrency in ransomware campaigns to fund illicit activities. Perhaps most notably, China is believed to be accumulating substantial Bitcoin holdings, integrating them into its strategic reserves. These developments underscore Gooden's conclusion: "Over the past decade, Bitcoin has evolved from a fringe asset into a matter of national security." Supporting these claims, data from the Bitcoin Policy Institute (BPI) shows that the United States currently holds approximately 328,000 BTC, while China possesses around 194,000 BTC, illustrating the competitive nature of this digital asset landscape.
