U.S. Expands Sanctions on Iran, Tehran Says It Is Ready
The United States announced on 25 August an expanded sanctions regime aimed at Iran’s financial networks and oil trade, with Iranian officials saying they were prepared for the measures. On 17 August Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent detailed a new sanctions package that would penalise countries importing Iranian crude, singling out China, and intensify economic pressure on Tehran. President Donald Trump had earlier warned of severe economic retaliation and even limited air strikes, urging allies to cease business with Iran. The United Arab Emirates halted all trade with Iran, and China condemned the sanctions as illegal unilateral actions.
Earlier U. S. officials had considered additional measures against Chinese refiners and banks, while Iran warned of a “seismic” response against any nation supporting the sanctions.