Pressure mounts on Iran as new US sanctions imminent

The United States is set to impose new sanctions on Iran, intensifying an already economic, military, and security conflict. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned of a "war" against his nation, as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent prepares to unveil measures on Monday. These sanctions are expected to target Iran's economic ties with third countries, coming after months of inconclusive warfare between the two nations.

Iranian officials acknowledge the country's economic struggles, particularly in water, energy, banking, and due to existing sanctions. However, they have been impressed by Iran's resilience and solidarity in the face of mounting pressure. Mohsen Rezaei, the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, has called on regional countries not to "join the US in its economic war."

US sanctions are seen as the toughest yet, as talks between Washington and Tehran have stalled. The 60-day window for peace talks, established with a framework agreement in June, expired last week. Despite hopes for negotiations, both sides have shown little interest in returning to the bargaining table since the ceasefire collapsed in late August. Iran resumed attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, and the US restarted air strikes on Iranian territory.

The 60-day deadline for talks passed without any progress. Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, is set to visit Tehran, while Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in Paris for talks with French President Emmanuel Macron. The focus of talks in Paris is expected to be on expanding oil pipelines as an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz, which is currently at a standstill due to shipping traffic disruptions.

Saudi Aramco is considering an expansion of its East-West pipeline amid the ongoing conflict, which has now extended to include Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping.