Iran has declared its readiness to counter the latest wave of US economic sanctions, which Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has labeled as “economic D-Day.” The sanctions, deemed the “single greatest financial offensive ever” against Iran, are set to tighten the economic noose around the country, with Bessent emphasizing that the US is fully prepared for a significant impact. Meanwhile, economists are raising eyebrows, questioning the effectiveness of these sanctions, which largely hinge on how Iran’s trade partners react.
Just hours after the US announcement, Iranian officials expressed confidence in their ability to continue trading with other nations. According to Madanizadeh, neither China nor Russia have accepted the US measures, and he believes other countries will also resist compliance. State television reported his remarks, highlighting Tehran’s anticipation of such plans for a long time.
In response to the sanctions, China firmly opposed what it referred to as “illegal unilateral sanctions,” signaling potential support for Iran at a time when oil and gas transit through the Strait of Hormuz is crucial. The US has previously blocked these routes since the conflict escalated in February, contributing to soaring oil prices globally.
At a press conference, Bessent unveiled “Operation Economic Outcast,” claiming that the US is intensifying its economic assault on Iran’s official connections worldwide. He stated that the Treasury has identified and targeted networks, facilitators, and channels Iran utilized to evade sanctions for oil trading. The sanctions include five sectors: digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping, affecting nearly 60 entities, individuals, and vessels.
Bessent did not hold back in his warnings to governments and entities engaged with Iran, indicating that they cannot feign ignorance to these activities. He stressed that they should cease interactions with the Iranian regime, asserting that the US would act swiftly and decisively against any violations.
With the renewed US naval blockade already crippling Iran’s oil exports, analysts like Ali Vaez from the International Crisis Group noted that about 90% of Iran’s oil is exported to China. He commented on a BBC Radio program that while Iran cannot afford to sever ties with its partners, the regime is poised to endure significant economic pain, reflecting a determination to survive amid the sanctions.
The broader implications of these developments remain to be seen, especially as the US administration continues to impose sanctions post-Trump’s presidency. Observers are left wondering how Iran will navigate this turbulent economic landscape in the coming weeks and months.
Kaynak: Orijinal Haber