Trump Needs China’s Help to Effectively Sanction Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that any country providing financial aid to Iran will face severe economic consequences. This includes cash transfers, oil smuggling operations, and other corporate dealings. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has echoed Trump's sentiments, urging allies to make a decision on whether they are "with us or against us" in squashing Iran's economy.

China has been a key player in Iran's economy, purchasing more than 80 percent of Iran's shipped oil in 2025. Despite U.S. calls for China to reduce its business ties with Iran, Beijing remains unwilling to comply. A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington stated that sanctions and pressure do not resolve the issue and called for responsible actions through political and diplomatic means.

Meanwhile, Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stressed that Tehran must plan for the unjust sanctions so they can overcome them. This comes as Maj. Gen. Ali Abdollahi, the chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, warned of potential retaliation through land, sea, air, or cyberattacks.

In other news, Zambian opposition party leader Brian Mundubile and his running mate were summoned by police on Thursday over alleged national security threats following Zambia's disputed presidential election. The incident, which included a raid on Mundubile's residence and the fatal shooting of opposition member Mutotwe Kafwaya, has sparked calls for a transparent, independent investigation.

Opposition party members have been subjected to arbitrary arrests and detentions during the electoral period, raising concerns about human rights violations.