Washington – Former US president Donald Trump has announced sweeping new tariffs on countries doing business with Iran, sharply escalating economic pressure on Tehran at a time when deadly protests continue across the country and the internal situation remains highly unstable.
In a statement issued on social media, Trump said any country maintaining trade relations with Iran would face a 25 per cent tariff on its trade with the United States, calling the decision final and warning of serious consequences for non-compliance. The move represents a significant hardening of Washington’s stance and extends punitive measures beyond Iran to nations that continue commercial engagement with it.
The announcement comes amid growing unrest inside Iran, where anti-government demonstrations have intensified in recent weeks. Human rights groups and international observers report a rising death toll as security forces crack down on protesters angered by economic hardship, inflation and political repression. While official figures remain disputed, the scale and persistence of the protests have drawn global concern.
Trump’s decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for countries that maintain economic ties with Iran, including several regional states and major global economies. Analysts warn that the tariffs could disrupt trade flows, increase costs for exporters and place governments under pressure as they balance strategic relations with the United States against ongoing commercial links with Tehran.
The policy also carries broader geopolitical consequences. Supporters argue that heightened economic pressure could further isolate Iran and force a change in behaviour, while critics caution that the measure risks straining US relations with key trading partners and may provoke retaliatory steps in global markets.
Meanwhile, tensions between Washington and Tehran remain elevated. Iranian authorities have blamed foreign actors for fueling unrest, while opposition groups accuse the government of using excessive force and violating fundamental rights.
Observers say the latest tariff announcement highlights how Iran’s internal crisis is increasingly shaping international diplomacy and trade dynamics. As protests continue and economic pressure mounts, the impact of these measures is likely to be felt well beyond Iran’s borders.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.