The United States is poised to impose a 25% tariff on all trade with any nation continuing to do business with Iran, President Trump has indicated. This move represents a significant escalation in the ongoing economic pressure campaign against Tehran.
This decision arrives amidst heightened political and economic tensions between Washington and Tehran, sparking warnings of broad international repercussions. The tariffs could profoundly impact key U.S. trading partners, particularly those with strong economic ties to Iran, such as China and India.
While an official announcement is awaited, sources suggest that the President is considering military options against Iran, while remaining open to reassessing the situation based on developments and discussions with advisors. One scenario reportedly involves a limited initial strike followed by renewed negotiations with Tehran regarding its nuclear program.
Experts warn of serious consequences for global energy markets should military escalation occur. An energy market analyst suggested that any potential military confrontation between Iran and the U.S. or Israel would add a ‘direct political risk premium’ to oil prices, potentially causing a rapid price surge. He noted that Iran currently exports approximately two million barrels per day, with a total production of around 3.2 million barrels per day.
Despite the gravity of the decision, the White House has yet to release official documentation outlining the legal basis for these tariffs, nor has it clarified whether all of Iran’s trading partners would be subject to the measures without exception.
The Chinese Embassy in Washington has strongly condemned the approach, stating that Beijing will take ‘all necessary measures’ to protect its interests, opposing ‘any illegitimate unilateral sanctions that overreach legal boundaries.’ A spokesperson emphasized that ‘tariff wars and trade wars have no winners, and coercion and pressure do not solve problems.’
Japan and South Korea have stated they are closely monitoring the situation. The South Korean Ministry of Trade indicated it would take ‘necessary measures’ once details of the new U.S. policy become clear, while Tokyo affirmed it would carefully study the substance of any potential actions.
