US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order threatening to impose additional tariffs on countries that continue to trade with Iran.
The order, issued on Friday, does not specify the rate that could be imposed, but uses 25% as an example. It states the tariff could apply to goods imported into the US from any nation that directly or indirectly purchases, imports, or otherwise acquires any goods or services from Iran.
Although Trump has not directly commented on the order, he emphasized a stance of preventing nuclear weapons in Iran during remarks from Air Force One.
This development follows recent talks between US and Iranian officials in Oman, amid escalating threats from both sides.
Earlier in the year, Trump had threatened a 25% tariff for countries engaging in business with Iran via social media, stating: Effective immediately, any country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a tariff of 25% on any and all business being done with the United States of America. Details on the implementation of these tariffs, however, remained unclear.
The White House confirmed that the executive order reaffirms the ongoing national emergency with respect to Iran and allows for modifications should circumstances evolve. It outlines Iran's nuclear pursuits and affiliations with terrorism as elements necessitating the sanctions.
In related news, the US state department announced sanctions against 15 entities for trading in Iranian oil products, with no immediate reaction from Iran, which is already under extensive sanctions related to its nuclear program.
Despite these sanctions, over 100 countries maintain trade relations with Iran, with China leading as its top export partner, followed by Iraq and Turkey.
Trump's approach has ignited discussions regarding military presence in the region, with fears of potential conflict rising amid the ongoing negotiations. The discussions in Oman were seen as an opportunity to clarify perspectives and explore possible areas for progress between the US and Iran.
