Trump Warns Countries Supporting Iran of Severe Economic Consequences
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has warned countries providing any form of financial, commercial or institutional support to Iran that they could face severe economic consequences, as Washington seeks to intensify pressure on Tehran over its nuclear programme.
In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said any country that assists Iran through its financial institutions, businesses, airports or government entities would face what he described as “very large economic consequences.”
The US president did not specify what measures Washington could impose or name any particular country. His remarks, however, have raised concerns that countries attempting to maintain economic ties with Iran or facilitate dialogue between Tehran and Washington could also come under US pressure.
Trump reiterated that Iran would not be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons and indicated that Washington remains focused on restricting Tehran’s nuclear capabilities.
The warning comes amid heightened regional tensions following the conflict involving Iran and Israel, in which the United States has also been involved. The fighting has caused heavy casualties and affected several countries across the Gulf region.
The Strait of Hormuz has remained a major point of concern during the conflict because of its importance to global energy supplies. Any disruption to shipping through the strategic waterway has the potential to create significant uncertainty in international oil markets.
The United States and Iran previously announced ceasefire arrangements in April and June, with efforts aimed at restoring maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and reducing tensions. However, both arrangements reportedly failed to produce a lasting resolution.
Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates announced the suspension of trade activities, business transactions and financial dealings with Iran for an indefinite period. The UAE said two missiles launched from Iran had fallen into the sea, while Tehran rejected the claim as unfounded.
China also remains a major buyer of Iranian oil, purchasing more than 80 percent of Iran’s oil exports, according to observers cited in the report. Analysts have warned that imposing additional economic pressure on Beijing over its dealings with Tehran could further intensify tensions between the United States and China.
Iranian leaders have said they remain open to negotiations with Washington but insist that talks should not be interpreted as surrender.
Trump, meanwhile, is seeking a new agreement that would place tighter restrictions on Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile and impose stronger limitations on the country’s nuclear programme.