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[POLITICS] · United States, Iran, China · 5 sources

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US Treasury Secretary announces toughest sanctions in history against Iran

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the United States intends to impose the 'toughest sanctions in history' on Iran. This move follows threats from President Donald Trump of engaging in 'Economic Warfare' against any nation providing a lifeline to Tehran.

Bessent suggested that the administration's strategy of maximum economic pressure is intended to limit Iran's ability to influence through proxy forces and could potentially negate the need for a large-scale military restart. He stated that the sanctions are designed to be effective in collapsing the Iranian regime.

In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the measures as 'economic terrorism' and claimed they are a diversion from domestic American issues. Meanwhile, China's embassy stated that such pressure does not aid in resolving the issue. Data indicates China accounted for over 80% of Iran's seaborne crude oil purchases in 2025.

Following the announcements, oil prices rose to a three-week high. Bessent indicated he would provide further details regarding the specific sanctions package during a press conference scheduled for Monday.

Entities

Abbas Araghchi · China · Donald Trump · Iran · Scott Bessent · United States · United States Department of the Treasury

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