US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday threatening heavy tariffs against countries that continue trading with Iran. While the order does not set a final rate, it specifically cites a 25% tariff as a primary example. This new policy targets any nation that “directly or indirectly purchases, imports, or otherwise acquires any goods or services from Iran.”
Trump reiterated his firm stance of “no nuclear weapons” for Iran while speaking from Air Force One on Friday night. Consequently, the White House reaffirmed the “ongoing national emergency” regarding Iran and signaled that the president may modify these measures. The administration holds Tehran accountable for its pursuit of nuclear capabilities, support for terrorism, and regional destabilization that endangers American interests.
Furthermore, the US State Department sanctioned 15 entities on Friday for trading in Iranian-origin crude oil and various petroleum products. Tehran has not yet officially commented on either announcement, although it remains under extensive Western sanctions due to its nuclear program. Iran consistently claims its program remains peaceful, despite US allegations that the nation continues seeking a functional nuclear weapon.
Diplomatic Tension and Global Trade
This escalation occurs as senior US and Iranian officials continue high-level talks in Oman following weeks of mutual threats. These discussions represent the first diplomatic contact since the US bombed three major Iranian nuclear facilities in June last year. Despite current sanctions, more than 100 countries still maintain trade ties with Iran, including major partners like China and Iraq.
Onboard Air Force One, Trump described the Oman discussions as “very good” and suggested that Iran wants a deal. “If they don’t make a deal, the consequences are very steep,” the president warned, while noting another meeting next week. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called the talks a “good start” on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Tensions remain high as the US builds a significant military presence in the region, including a “massive armada.” This deployment responds to Iran’s violent crackdown on anti-government protesters last month, which reportedly resulted in many thousands of deaths. Although the full scale of the bloodshed remains unclear, Trump maintains that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei should be “very worried.”
