President Donald Trump has announced plans to levy a 25 percent tariff on imports from any nation that continues commercial dealings with Iran, using his Truth Social account to unveil the proposal. The White House has yet to clarify the legal basis for the move or outline how such tariffs would be enforced.
If implemented, the measure would have wide-reaching implications for countries that maintain strong trade relationships with Tehran, among them China, Turkey, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates and India. Analysts warn the policy could disrupt global commerce and strain diplomatic ties. Beijing has already criticised the announcement and indicated it may consider retaliatory steps.
The proposal comes amid broader uncertainty surrounding US trade policy. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing the extent of presidential authority to impose tariffs under powers exercised during Trump’s previous term, with a decision expected as early as this week.
Separately, Iran has cautioned that any US military intervention would prompt them to strike American and Israeli shipping centres, which they have characterised as legitimate targets in the event of a US strike. The remarks were made during a parliamentary session in Tehran, as the country faces sustained protests and mounting international concern over internal unrest.
Trump has said Washington is evaluating its options, including the possible use of force, should Iran’s security response continue to result in civilian casualties. While he has expressed public support for demonstrators, declaring that “help is on the way,” US officials emphasise that no course of action has been finalised and that diplomatic efforts remain ongoing.