WASHINGTON – US President Trump has sharply increased pressure on Iran with a new trade threat. He announced a 25 percent tariff on any country that trades with both Tehran and Washington. The decision marks a major escalation in tensions between the two nations.
In a social media post, Trump said the tariffs would take effect immediately. He described the move as final and conclusive. He did not name specific countries affected by the decision. However, Iran’s major trading partners could face serious economic impact.
China, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Iraq are among Iran’s biggest trade partners. These countries may now be forced to reconsider their trade ties. Analysts say the move could disrupt regional and global trade flows.
The announcement comes during intense unrest inside Iran. Protests have continued for more than two weeks across the country. What began as demonstrations over inflation has grown into a wider challenge to the political system.
Iranian authorities have imposed a near-total internet shutdown. Security forces have used force to control the protests. Despite these measures, demonstrations have not fully stopped. Human rights groups report rising casualties.
Norway-based Iran Human Rights said the blackout makes it hard to confirm death figures. The group warned the world that civilians may be facing mass killings. It urged international actors to step in and protect protesters.
The White House said Trump prefers diplomacy but is not ruling out military options. Officials stressed that all tools remain available. The US State Department advised American citizens and dual nationals to leave Iran immediately. It warned that Iran does not recognize dual nationality.
China reacted strongly to the tariff threat. Beijing called it an illegal and unilateral action. Chinese officials warned that tariff wars have no winners and promised to protect their trade interests.
Inside Iran, leaders tried to project strength. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei praised pro-government rallies. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf described the crisis as a multi-front war. He cited economic pressure, foreign threats, and internal unrest.
Despite rising tensions, Trump claimed Iranian officials reached out for talks. Iran’s foreign minister said the country does not seek war but is ready for it. He confirmed indirect contact through US envoy Steve Witkoff.
Opposition figure Reza Pahlavi rejected claims of progress. He said Tehran is misleading the world about negotiations. Iranian state media, meanwhile, showed calm scenes and reported fewer protests.
The international community remains alert. The European Union is weighing further sanctions. France condemned violence against protesters, while Russia warned against foreign interference.
In other news read more about Trump Considers Military Action Against Iran as Tehran Protests Claim Over 500 Lives
As protests continue and threats grow, Iran faces an uncertain future. The standoff between Tehran and Trump’s administration has placed the region on edge.
