President Donald Trump has moved to exploit the weakness of the Iranian regime with a surprise tariff announcement. Perceiving the clerical establishment as teetering on the brink of collapse due to massive protests, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on countries trading with Iran. The move is designed to push the regime over the edge by cutting off its financial support. The announcement, made on Truth Social, caught global markets off guard and signaled a new phase in the U.S. strategy.
The protests in Iran have been devastating for the government. With over 600 dead and mass arrests, the regime’s legitimacy is in tatters. The internet blackout suggests they are losing control of the narrative. The evacuation of French diplomats confirms the instability. Trump claims to be in contact with the opposition, coordinating his pressure campaign with their efforts.
China has denounced the tariffs as “coercion.” Beijing is trying to maintain its trade ties with Iran, but the U.S. penalty makes that expensive. The Chinese government warns that trade wars have no winners, but Trump seems willing to take the risk. He believes the U.S. holds the cards.
The White House is also brandishing the threat of airstrikes. Officials say all options are available. The regime’s private diplomatic outreach indicates they are looking for a deal, but Trump is raising the price. The tariffs are a way to turn the screws.
Legal challenges to the tariffs are pending in the Supreme Court, but Trump is acting now. He sees a window of opportunity to effect change in Iran. The surprise announcement is typical of his style: bold, disruptive, and aimed at achieving immediate results.