Washington: The United States is poised to impose the harshest sanctions on Iran in its history, as announced by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Basen. The measures are part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at destabilizing the Iranian government, which also includes a naval blockade. Basen has called on the Chinese government to align with these efforts, emphasizing the mutual benefits for energy stability in the region. A press conference is scheduled for Monday to provide further details.
According to Thai News Agency, the new sanctions are part of a dual approach designed to exert maximum pressure on Iran without escalating to a large-scale military conflict. Basen argued that this strategy should not result in higher oil prices and urged China to reconsider its support for Iran. Highlighting that China imports a significant portion of its energy from the Middle East, he suggested that cooperation could ensure the stability of energy transportation routes, which would be advantageous for China.
President Donald Trump has previously threatened economic warfare against any nation aiding Iran, as the U.S. seeks to conclude a conflict persisting for nearly six months. Despite these threats, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington has called for a diplomatic resolution, asserting that sanctions and pressure are not viable solutions to the issue.
Analysts caution that further economic confrontation with China could provoke retaliatory actions, given China's role as a major exporter to the U.S., especially concerning essential rare earth minerals. Data indicates that China purchases over 80 percent of Iranian oil exports, complicating U.S. efforts to economically isolate Iran.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed the U.S. threats as a distraction from domestic issues such as rising debt and interest rates. The Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned the U.S. measures as economic terrorism, asserting that such pressure tactics would only strengthen the Iranian resolve to maintain its independence and sovereignty.