United States seeks global cooperation to isolate Iranian economy

The United States has called on its allies and China to join a new campaign to isolate the Iranian economy, aiming to trigger the collapse of the government in Tehran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the initiative as the “largest coordinated economic isolation operation in world history,” signaling a shift from military pressure to maximum economic pressure.

President Donald Trump warned via Truth Social that the economic operation would be “overwhelming.” He stated that any nation providing “any kind of lifeline to Iran” would face “tremendous economic consequences.” Bessent noted that while this strategy aims to reduce the likelihood of large-scale military conflict, he emphasized that the current stance is “for now.”

In response, Iran has accused the United States of committing “economic terrorism” and “crimes against humanity,” arguing that the sanctions target the fundamental human rights of its citizens. Regarding China, Bessent urged Beijing to join the plan, noting that while many discussions are held privately, cooperation is encouraged ahead of President Xi Jinping’s scheduled visit to the White House on September 24.