U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated economic pressure on Iran, warning that any country, financial institution or business providing Tehran with a “lifeline” could face severe economic consequences.
Trump described the new campaign as an unprecedented effort to isolate Iran economically, saying entities that assist Tehran through financial services, trade, airports or other channels would be targeted. However, he did not immediately provide detailed information on which countries or specific measures could be affected.
Iran Rejects Trump’s Threat
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed Trump’s announcement as a continuation of failed U.S. policies. He accused Washington of using economic pressure as a form of “economic terrorism” and said Iran would remain resistant to the campaign.
The warning comes as the nearly six-month conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran continues without a clear diplomatic breakthrough. Previous ceasefire efforts have failed, while Washington continues to demand major concessions from Tehran, particularly over its nuclear programme.
Pressure on Iran’s Trading Partners
Trump’s threat could put additional pressure on countries and companies that maintain commercial relationships with Iran, particularly those involved in oil, banking and logistics. Iran has already faced extensive international sanctions, while the latest U.S. campaign seeks to further restrict its access to global financial and trading networks.
The United Arab Emirates has suspended financial ties with Iran, while China, a major buyer of Iranian oil, has called for diplomatic solutions and opposed further escalation.
Hormuz and Global Oil Markets
The announcement has also added uncertainty to global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz remains heavily disrupted, limiting the movement of oil and other commodities through one of the world’s most important energy routes.
Oil prices rose to three-week highs on Thursday as investors assessed the possibility of prolonged disruption to Middle Eastern supplies.
Trump’s latest warning therefore marks a significant expansion of Washington’s economic pressure campaign, with the potential to affect Iran’s trading partners and further increase tensions across global energy and financial markets.
