US threatens tougher Iran sanctions, raising pressure on China
IRAN has condemned impending US sanctions that could further damage its battered economy and put pressure on key trading partners, particularly China, as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high nearly six months after the outbreak of war. ...
The United States is set to impose its most stringent sanctions on Iran, targeting countries and companies that continue trading with the Islamic Republic. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has described the impending measures as "the toughest sanctions in history," with the aim of isolating Iran economically. According to Reuters, Bessent is scheduled to announce the sanctions in a news conference on Monday, urging China to cooperate in the process.
China, which accounts for over 80% of Iran's seaborne oil exports, is particularly vulnerable to the economic pressure. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, dismissed the threat of secondary sanctions, arguing they contravene international law. Iranian officials have also warned neighboring countries against aiding the U.S. campaign, threatening to consider them as enemies.
Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane, has seen a significant drop in commercial traffic, with only four ships crossing on Thursday, contrary to the usual 20 million barrels of oil daily. The U.S. military has facilitated the passage of about eight million barrels of oil a day over the past week, but this still falls short of pre-war levels.
Iran's military leaders have claimed improvements in missile and drone capabilities, while President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for a diplomatic solution, preferring to end the conflict while Iran still holds some strength and dignity.
Written by urgent.news from The Vibes's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
