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US says it will impose ‘toughest sanctions in history’ on Iran

DUBAI/WASHINGTON, Aug 21 (Reuters) - US Treasury chief Scott Bessent said the United States will impose "the toughest sanctions in history" on Iran, a move he suggested would lessen the need for new major military operations.

US says it will impose ‘toughest sanctions in history’ on Iran

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the United States will impose the toughest sanctions in history on Iran, aiming to end a nearly six-month war. Bessent stated that these economic measures would reduce the need for potential military operations. The sanctions, which have been in place for nearly 50 years, are a response to Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route.

The U.S. and Iran have tried twice before to reach a ceasefire agreement, but both failed. Bessent emphasized that the sanctions will function as part of the economic pressure strategy, potentially leading to the collapse of Iran's regime. China, which buys over 80% of Iran's shipped oil, may face consequences from the U.S. if it continues to engage in trade with Iran.

Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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