Former US President Donald Trump has issued a warning. Any country trading with Iran will face a 25 percent tariff on all business with the United States. He made the announcement in a post on Truth Social on Monday. He said the tariff would take effect immediately.
Trump’s message comes at a time when Iran faces mass protests. Reports suggest hundreds of protesters have been killed in a severe crackdown. He has previously warned that the United States could intervene if Iran continues to use force against demonstrators.
The tariff threat could affect major economies including China, India, the United Arab Emirates and the European Union. These countries maintain trade links with Iran despite long-standing US sanctions. Politico reports that the United States itself does very little direct trade with Iran. Last year’s figures show only modest imports and exports between the two countries.
Experts told Politico the announcement may not change much unless it is enforced. They note that existing sanctions have not always been applied strictly. Observers are now watching to see if Trump formalises the tariff through an executive order or other legal mechanism. As of Monday, Politico reported that the White House had not issued any official documentation to support the claim.
Trump’s threat follows rising pressure on Iran’s leaders as protests spread across the country. Iran has recently faced strong criticism from human rights groups. Trump has encouraged the demonstrations and stated that the United States stands ready to support calls for greater freedoms.
Source: Politico
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