Bessant Threatens Iran with Toughest Sanctions in History

The United States is poised to implement a new round of sanctions against Iran, which Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant described as the "toughest sanctions in history." Bessant announced that details would be revealed at a press conference, framing the move as a "double blow" to Iran, building upon existing blockades.

Bessant expressed strong conviction that these measures will be effective, stating, "We are going to overthrow this regime." He called upon U.S. allies and the international community to make a choice regarding their stance on Iran. Bessant emphasized the global interest in reopening the Strait of Hormuz and reducing energy prices, noting that China, a major energy consumer, sources 50% of its energy from the Persian Gulf.

He suggested that China would benefit from joining the pressure campaign against Iran, especially given that the country purchases over 80% of Iran's exported oil, according to 2025 data from the analytics firm Kpler. The U.S. is increasing economic pressure on China, which could prompt retaliatory measures from Beijing. Iran has been under severe economic sanctions for nearly 50 years, dating back to the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

This development follows previous reports that the U.S. was preparing unprecedented economic measures against Iran. In mid-August, U.S. President Donald Trump asserted U.S. control over the Strait of Hormuz, a claim contested by Iran. Trump's strategy has shifted from potential military action to a focus on sanctions and a waiting tactic.