The United States has vowed to impose what Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described as the “toughest sanctions in history” against Iran, saying Washington intends to intensify economic pressure on Tehran and cut off the financial lifelines supporting its government.
Bessent said the Trump administration’s strategy was designed to severely weaken Iran’s economy and increase pressure on the country’s leadership. In remarks to a news outlet, he said the U.S. planned to “squash” the economy of what he called Iran’s “murderous regime” and expressed confidence that the pressure campaign would lead to its collapse.
‘Economic Warfare’ Campaign Intensifies
The announcement follows President Donald Trump’s warning of an “Economic D-Day” against Iran and threats of consequences for countries or entities providing Tehran with economic support.
According to Bessent, the measures will form part of a broader campaign of economic isolation, alongside existing U.S. pressure on Iran’s trade and financial networks. He also urged U.S. allies and major trading partners to cooperate with Washington’s effort to deny Iran access to international economic support.
Pressure on Iran and Its Trading Partners
The sanctions campaign could place increased pressure on countries and companies that continue doing business with Iran. China, one of Iran’s most important economic partners and a major buyer of its oil, is expected to be a key focus of Washington’s efforts to isolate Tehran.
Bessent said further details of the proposed measures would be announced, while arguing that stronger economic pressure could reduce the likelihood of a major return to large-scale military operations.
Iran Vows Response
Iran has strongly rejected the U.S. threats, condemning the sanctions campaign as “economic terrorism” and warning that any attempt to further damage the country’s economic lifelines would be met with a strong response.
The escalating economic confrontation comes amid continuing regional tensions and disruption to shipping through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The new measures could further affect global energy markets and deepen uncertainty across the Middle East.
The effectiveness of Washington’s latest strategy remains uncertain. Iran has lived under extensive international sanctions for decades and has repeatedly developed alternative trading networks to reduce the impact of restrictions. However, U.S. officials believe a more coordinated international effort could significantly increase pressure on Tehran’s government.
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