By SCM Correspondent
WASHINGTON – DONALD TRUMP has sent shockwaves through global markets by threatening a massive 25% tariff on any country that dares to do business with Iran.
In a characteristically blunt Truth Social post late Monday, the President declared the move “final and conclusive” and effective “immediately,” effectively forcing world leaders to choose between the Iranian regime and the mighty American market.
”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,” Trump warned.
The “America First” bombshell targets some of the world’s biggest economies. Nations like China, India, and Turkey—all of whom maintain significant trade links with Tehran—now face a multi-billion pound bill if they do not sever ties.
Economists warned last night that the move could see prices soar for British and American consumers as the “Trade War 2.0” enters a dangerous new phase.
The tariff threat comes as the White House ratchets up the heat on Tehran following a bloody crackdown on anti-government protesters. Reports suggest nearly 600 people have been killed in the unrest.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that while the President prefers diplomacy, he is “unafraid” to use “lethal force and the might of the United States military.”
She added: “One thing President Trump is very good at is always keeping all of his options on the table.”
The Context of the Conflict
The Protest Crisis: Iran is currently gripped by its largest anti-government demonstrations since 1979.
Sparked by worsening economic conditions, the protests have faced a brutal response from the regime, with over 10,000 people reportedly arrested.
Maximum Pressure 2.0: Since returning to office, Trump has revived his “maximum pressure” campaign.
This has included the reported “obliteration” of the Iranian nuclear program by U.S. forces last year and a 12-day war between U.S. ally Israel and Iran.
Economic Strategy: Trump has described tariffs as “the most beautiful word in the dictionary.”
He is currently using them as his primary foreign policy tool, despite ongoing legal challenges in the U.S. Supreme Court over his authority to bypass Congress on trade taxes.
The China Factor: This move risks shattering a fragile “trade truce” with Beijing, as China remains the world’s top buyer of Iranian oil.
