Trump Threatens Sanctions on Iranian Oil Buyers, Escalates Geopolitical Tensions

Former President Donald Trump has threatened to impose sweeping secondary sanctions on any country or individual purchasing Iranian oil or petrochemicals, warning that violators would be barred from doing business with the United States. This move, announced on social media, appears aimed primarily at China, Iran's main oil customer, and has raised concerns of escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing. The threat coincides with a delay in planned US-Iran nuclear talks, with Oman citing logistical reasons for the postponement and both sides expressing willingness to reschedule. Analysts note the sanctions are intended to intensify economic pressure on Iran's energy sector while also forcing China to choose between commercial relations with Iran or the US. The effort mirrors Trump's previous 'maximum pressure' campaign, which significantly impacted Iran's finances and its regional influence. The situation adds further uncertainty to the already tense environment in the Middle East and global oil markets.