The United States And Iranian Sanctions–To Have Or Not To Have? – The Organization for World Peace
On Monday, August 24th, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent revealed more sanctions in hopes of disrupting economic necessities for Iran. Bessent unveiled this as an “economic D-Day” as a final message to countries, in hopes they’ll cut economic ties with Iran. This also comes with the progression of the war being largely unpopular along with heightening energy prices.
Which countries were specifically asked to cut ties is unknown. All that is known is Bessent’s spoken plan. According to the Fulton Sun, Bessent spoke at a press conference stating, “We are launching an economic onslaught against Iran’s financial connections around the globe. Our objective is to sever every economic lifeline that sustains this tyrannical regime until Tehran stands alone.” The United States’ plan is to break Iran’s stability from the outside first—especially regarding how the war has elongated. However, this may not be their smartest tactic. According to NPR, ‘All Things Considered’ host Ali Chang spoke of the consequences of this tactic, countering, “Bessent warned that that [sanctions] could include Chinese banks, which threatens to end a period of economic detente with Beijing.” This would be a devastating rift for the United States, considering President Trump’s strong relations with China—specifically President Xi Jinping.
The longstanding war between the United States and Iran is unpopular with a majority of people. As the Trump administration publicly attempts to find methods to end it, they increasingly seem less logical when considering factors that could come into play. In the long run, is it truly worth it for the United States to risk losing more allies? The Trump administration must find a better goal that does not put a strain on its relations. Ending relations with this plan could ultimately end in more conflict and tension.
Bessent publicly urged China to cooperate with their decision, as China is a large buyer of oil from Iran. However, the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated they will do what is necessary to protect Beijing and China as a whole.
The United States is currently holding the cards with these sanctions. Their formal decision to follow through with them is crucial for their country’s interests and relations. It is crystal clear that China is not budging on changing its relations, so the United States must follow a path that will be the most beneficial in the long run.