US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose severe economic penalties on Iran and any country that continues to provide financial or commercial support to Tehran.
Trump announced the threat in a post on Truth Social, describing the planned measures as an “economic D-Day” against Iran. He said countries whose banks, businesses, airports or government agencies provide Iran with financial or logistical support could face what he called “TREMENDOUS Economic Consequences.”
Pressure on Iran intensifies
The threat comes after a 60-day ceasefire expired without a diplomatic settlement to the war involving the US, Israel and Iran.
Washington has already imposed sanctions on foreign banks and companies accused of helping Iran generate revenue. Trump is now threatening to broaden those measures to include activities such as:
- Oil smuggling
- Cash transfers
- Exchange houses
- Ship registries
- Front companies
- Financial transactions supporting Iran
Trump did not specify exactly what penalties supporting countries would face.
UAE cuts economic ties with Iran
The announcement came shortly after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) said it would cut financial and economic ties with Iran following a new missile threat.
The UAE said it detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran toward maritime traffic, although both reportedly fell into the sea.
Iranian businesses have historically used financial institutions and exchange houses in Dubai to move money internationally, making the UAE’s decision potentially significant for Tehran.
China could face pressure
Although Trump did not specifically name China, Chinese businesses are among the biggest buyers of Iranian oil. Washington has already sanctioned several privately owned Chinese “teapot” refineries accused of processing Iranian crude.
China has rejected those sanctions, saying they violate international law and should not be recognised or enforced.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticised Trump’s latest threat, calling it a diversion from America’s own economic problems. He warned that continuing the same policies would increase hostility toward Iran rather than force Tehran to surrender.
Strait of Hormuz remains crucial
The confrontation also has major implications for global energy markets because Iran has been able to restrict maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route.
The waterway normally carries roughly 20% of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. Any prolonged disruption could therefore push up energy prices and increase economic pressure on countries around the world.
The latest threats signal that Washington intends to intensify its campaign to cut Iran off from international sources of revenue while diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict remain uncertain.
