U.S. threatens Iran with new sanctions
The new sanctions come as Iran’s oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz have fallen sharply.
The new sanctions come as Iran’s oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz have fallen sharply.
WASHINGTON (AFP) — The United States on Monday announced expanded sanctions on Iran, warning countries and companies that continue doing business with Tehran that they could face penalties.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington’s goal was the “economic asphyxiation” of Iran, nearly six months into the war and amid stalled peace talks.
“Around the globe, our objective is to sever every economic lifeline that sustains this tyrannical regime until Tehran stands alone,” Bessent said.
The Treasury Department said the new measures target Iran’s digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping sectors. It also sanctioned 60 individuals, companies and vessels accused of helping Iran generate oil revenue, procure weapons and conduct cyber operations.
The sanctions affect entities in several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Europe.
Bessent said countries that do not join the campaign would “share” in Iran’s isolation. He also warned that anyone who facilitates money laundering for Iran would be cut off from the US dollar system.
Iran dismissed the measures.
“We’ve been waiting for these plans for a long time, and the government is and was ready and has a two-year plan to manage these events,” Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh said.
The new sanctions come as Iran’s oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz have fallen sharply, according to maritime tracker Kpler.
An oil tanker was also struck by an “unknown projectile” off Oman, damaging its engine room but causing no casualties, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the shift toward economic pressure does not rule out military action.
“By no means are we foreclosing using kinetic strikes anywhere in the Strait of Hormuz or around Iran,” he said.
