The United States is preparing a large-scale campaign of economic pressure against Iran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Washington intends to inflict an unprecedented level of coordinated economic isolation on Tehran.

According to Bessent, this approach is designed to exert maximum economic pressure on Iran with the goal of destabilizing the current administration and reducing the need for a large-scale military operation.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen expressed optimism about the success of Washington's economic campaign, calling the proposed sanctions likely the most extensive coordinated financial operation ever conducted against a government.

Washington's Warning to Iran's Trading Partners

The strategy may affect not only Iranian entities themselves. Bessent warned countries conducting commercial or financial business with Tehran about possible serious consequences if the sanctions regime expands.

Washington is expected to try to force its partners to choose between supporting the US-led economic isolation plan and continuing trade with Iran. China, in particular, may play a crucial role in this campaign due to its economic ties with Tehran. Bessent did not specify whether Beijing would face direct consequences but called on China to cooperate with Washington in developing the strategy.

Furthermore, the US believes that China and other major powers are interested in restoring shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. He added that upcoming actions could limit Iran's ability to support its regional allies and proxies.

Iran Accuses US of 'Economic Terrorism'

Tehran responded decisively: Iran's Foreign Ministry condemned Washington's latest economic and trade restrictions, labeling them 'economic terrorism.' Iran asserts that the sanctions ultimately punish ordinary citizens, not just the government, and accused Washington of employing practices it termed crimes against humanity.

The ministry stated that the latest sanctions campaign demonstrated the inability of the United States to achieve its goals through military coercion, emphasizing that Tehran will continue to defend its national interests in the face of economic, political, and military threats.

Threats of New Sanctions from Trump

These sharp statements followed President Donald Trump's announcement that Washington is preparing additional sanctions against Iran, increasing pressure on the country's already struggling economy. The US Treasury has not yet disclosed the precise details of these measures, creating uncertainty about which sectors, firms, financial networks, or countries might be affected.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi sharply criticized Washington's policy, stating that a return to economic warfare would not lead to Tehran's submission. These steps indicate an escalation of economic confrontation between Washington and Tehran, while the Trump administration believes that unprecedented financial isolation can force Iran without provoking a new major military escalation.

Al Bawaba