US Shifts Sanctions Strategy to Squeeze Iran Economically

The Trump administration plans to intensify economic sanctions on Iran, shifting from military tactics to financial strategies aimed at forcing Tehran to negotiate. Key measures include targeting countries trading with Iran and imposing secondary sanctions. Critics express skepticism, but US officials remain optimistic about the strategy's potential efficacy.

The Trump administration is redirecting its focus toward economic sanctions to apply pressure on Iran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans to increase financial constraints on Tehran during a briefing at the White House.

The US strategy includes imposing secondary sanctions on countries that continue to trade with Iranian-controlled entities, aiming to cut off economic avenues supporting Iran's nuclear ambitions. This approach marks an escalation from previous efforts, as the administration signals its intent to suffocate Iran's financial networks.

Despite concerns about potential diplomatic repercussions and uncertainty among some politicians, including allies skeptical of the effectiveness of additional sanctions, President Trump and his team are confident this tactic will corner Iran into negotiating a nuclear agreement.

(With inputs from agencies.)