Here are some of Trump’s options as he prepares to increase economic pressure on Iran

As President Donald Trump considers intensifying economic pressure on Iran, several options remain on the table. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that new sanctions would be imposed as early as next week. Iran has long faced sanctions, primarily due to its nuclear program, human rights concerns, and support for militant groups. The US, UN, and EU have enacted trade embargoes, frozen assets, and maritime blockades.

Among the potential measures, US officials have targeted Chinese independent refineries, known as "teapots," which handle a quarter of China's refinery capacity. These refineries, often operating at narrow profit margins, could face secondary sanctions due to their involvement in processing Iranian oil. Treasury Department officials have warned two larger Chinese banks to avoid facilitating Iranian funds, though they haven't publicly designated them.

Hitting these banks with secondary sanctions could impact other financial institutions, but it might also provoke Chinese retaliation. The administration has also pondered a land blockade, requiring cooperation from Iran's neighbors like Iraq, Turkey, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, and Armenia. While some nations, like Pakistan and Turkey, may offer assistance, a land blockade would be challenging to enforce effectively.

Another option involves imposing tariffs on goods from countries that trade with Iran. Although the Supreme Court invalidated the legal basis for such tariffs, the Senate recently passed a bill that could grant Trump new tariff powers against entities aiding Iran's commerce and weapons purchases. However, the bill must still pass the House of Representatives, which may prove complex due to bipartisan disagreements over potential tariffs.