US President Donald Trump has announced the immediate imposition of a 25% tariff on goods imported from countries that maintain commercial ties with Iran, escalating economic pressure on Tehran as anti-government protests stretch into a third consecutive week.
In a post on social media on Monday, Trump said the tariff was “effective immediately,” though he did not clearly define what level or type of trade would qualify as “doing business with Iran.” The announcement signals a renewed hardline stance by Washington against Iran, combining economic sanctions with indirect pressure on its international trading partners.
The move comes at a tense moment for Iran, where protests sparked by economic hardship and political grievances have continued across several cities. While Iranian authorities have sought to downplay the unrest, videos and reports circulating online suggest persistent demonstrations despite security crackdowns.
Analysts say the proposed tariff could have far-reaching implications beyond Iran, particularly for countries in Asia, the Middle East and parts of Europe that still engage in limited trade with Tehran under existing sanctions frameworks. By targeting third-party states, the policy mirrors earlier US strategies aimed at isolating Iran economically without direct military confrontation.
Critics warn that the lack of clarity around enforcement could unsettle global markets and complicate trade relations, especially if major economies are affected. Supporters, however, argue that the measure increases leverage on Iran’s leadership at a time of internal instability, potentially forcing concessions on nuclear, regional security, or human rights issues.
Iranian officials have yet to issue a formal response to the tariff announcement, but Tehran has previously condemned similar US actions as economic warfare and violations of international law.
As protests continue and diplomatic tensions rise, observers say the effectiveness of the new tariff will depend largely on how rigorously it is enforced and whether key US partners choose to comply or push back against the policy.
Protests erupt in Iran as prices surge and currency hits new low
