Trump administration plans 'economic D-Day' against Iran, targeting countries doing business with Tehran

This new pressure campaign follows previous sanctions and the withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the US would take action against any nation providing a lifeline to Iran, emphasizing, "You are either with us or against us." Vice-President JD Vance described this as a "new phase" where economic pressure is the "most effective" tool.

Geostrategy expert Imran Bayoumi of the Atlantic Council views this as a sign of US frustration, noting that a clear strategy from the administration is still lacking. Michael Parker, an expert on economic sanctions, believes the new strategy will expand the "economic blast radius" by targeting third countries whose economies rely on the US dollar. However, Iran has historically adapted to sanctions through irregular channels, such as "shadow" vessels and new commercial fronts.

The effectiveness of these new sanctions will depend on the willingness of targeted countries, including US allies like Turkey and Iraq, as well as China, to comply with US foreign policy objectives.