Washington: The administration of US President Donald Trump has threatened sanctions against countries that continue trading with Iran, launching a new economic pressure campaign as Washington seeks to weaken Tehran.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has described the initiative as “Operation Economic Outcast” and compared the campaign to D-Day, signalling the administration’s determination to intensify pressure on Iran.
US turns to economic pressure
The latest move comes as the Trump administration seeks to increase the cost of doing business with Iran while US military efforts face difficulties.
Washington’s strategy is aimed at economically isolating Tehran by putting pressure on countries and businesses that maintain commercial ties with Iran.
The threat of sanctions could have wider consequences for countries that rely on Iranian trade, particularly those that continue purchasing or supplying goods despite US restrictions.
China signals it will not cooperate
China, described as Iran’s biggest trading partner, has already indicated that it will not cooperate with Trump’s efforts to attack the Iranian economy.
Beijing’s position could make Washington’s campaign more difficult, as China remains a major economic partner for Tehran.
The standoff therefore risks extending beyond the US-Iran conflict, potentially creating another point of tension between Washington and Beijing.
Pressure mounts on Tehran
The economic campaign represents another front in the confrontation with Iran, alongside ongoing military efforts.
By threatening countries that trade with Tehran, the Trump administration is seeking to restrict Iran’s access to international markets and deepen the economic pressure on its government.
However, resistance from major trading partners such as China could limit the effectiveness of the strategy and add another layer to an already tense geopolitical situation.