Trump announces new ‘Economic D-Day’ against Iran, threatens countries trading with Tehran

Washington: US President Donald Trump has announced what he described as the “most crushing economic operation ever” against Iran, warning that countries and institutions providing Tehran with economic support could also face severe consequences. The announcement comes as efforts to reach a new agreement between Washington and Tehran remain stalled.

Trump said the United States would intensify economic pressure on Iran after Tehran failed to reach a deal with Washington. He described the new campaign as an “Economic D-Day” and warned that countries giving Iran “any type of lifeline” could face major economic repercussions.

The US president did not provide full details of the new measures, but the Trump administration has been preparing additional restrictions aimed at further weakening Iran’s economy. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had previously indicated that Washington was considering measures that would impose unprecedented economic pressure on Tehran.

The new campaign is expected to focus on Iran’s oil exports, financial networks, shipping and other sources of foreign revenue. Washington has already imposed extensive sanctions on Iranian-linked individuals, companies, vessels and financial networks as part of its broader pressure campaign.

Trump’s warning to Iran’s trading partners could have wider international consequences. The administration has indicated that countries and businesses continuing to provide economic channels to Tehran could themselves face punitive measures, potentially making international companies more cautious about doing business with Iran.

The announcement comes shortly after the United Arab Emirates suspended trade and financial transactions with Iran following missile incidents that Abu Dhabi attributed to Tehran. Iran has denied responsibility for the missile launches. The UAE has traditionally been an important trading and financial gateway for Iranian businesses.

The latest US move comes amid a wider escalation in the Middle East and growing uncertainty over the Strait of Hormuz. Disruptions to shipping through the strategic waterway have already raised concerns about global energy supplies, shipping costs and oil prices.

The Trump administration appears to be betting that intensified economic pressure will force Tehran to return to negotiations on Washington’s terms. However, Iranian authorities have indicated that they are preparing for prolonged economic and military pressure, leaving the prospects for a diplomatic breakthrough uncertain.