US Announces More Severe Economic Sanctions on Iran Next Week

Washington, August 14: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has announced that the United States will unveil further unprecedented economic measures against Iran next week, saying Washington intends to isolate Tehran economically through measures with no precedent against any other country.

According to Reuters, Scott Bessent said in an interview with US media outlet Newsmax on August 13 that more announcements should be expected next week and that the United States would pursue measures aimed at imposing an unprecedented level of economic isolation on Iran.

The US Treasury Secretary said the new strategy would include further economic pressure on Iran as well as continued measures related to the Strait of Hormuz, with the aim of restricting trade and economic activity linked to Tehran.

Bessent did not provide details of the measures expected to be announced next week, but indicated that Washington was preparing a broader package of financial and trade restrictions to intensify pressure on Iran.

The announcement comes amid continued tensions between the United States and Iran, particularly over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global energy shipments.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has also said that the US Navy has the capability to maintain a blockade of Iranian ports indefinitely. He said US naval forces could be maintained in the region through the rotation of ships.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy transit routes. Any prolonged disruption or closure could have significant consequences for global oil supplies, shipping and energy prices.

US officials have said that the economic pressure is intended to increase pressure on Iran over its nuclear activities and other policy issues, while Tehran has repeatedly rejected US sanctions and Washington’s broader pressure campaign.