US declares 'economic war' on Iran, vows to 'collapse this regime'

The United States is launching a sweeping new campaign of economic pressure against Iran, aiming to isolate Tehran to an unprecedented degree and destabilize its government. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the strategy, which he said is designed to maximize economic pressure and minimize the need for military action.

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We are going to collapse this regime

Bessent warned that countries doing business with Iran could face serious consequences as the sanctions widen. The U.S. is expected to pressure partners to choose between the isolation plan and trade with Tehran. China, a key economic partner for Iran, was specifically mentioned, though Bessent declined to say if Beijing would face direct repercussions, urging cooperation instead.

Iran's Foreign Ministry forcefully rejected the U.S. measures, denouncing them as "economic terrorism." Tehran argued that the sanctions harm ordinary civilians and accused Washington of committing crimes against humanity. The ministry asserted that the U.S. has failed to achieve its objectives through military means and that Iran will continue to defend its national interests against economic, political, and military threats.

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probably the most sweeping coordinated financial isolation operation ever mounted against a government

President Donald Trump has also indicated that more sanctions are forthcoming. While the U.S. Treasury has not yet detailed the specific targets, the uncertainty leaves open the possibility of sanctions on sectors, firms, financial networks, or countries. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized Washington's policy, stating that a return to economic warfare would not compel Tehran to negotiate.

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economic terrorism