New US sanctions on Iran could also reach Russia
The US is preparing its toughest sanctions yet on Iran, aiming to force buyers of Iranian oil to choose between trading with Tehran and maintaining ties with Washington. The move could indirectly affect Russia, which continues its war against Ukraine.
The United States is preparing to introduce its harshest sanctions against Iran to date. Washington's goal, however, extends beyond Iran itself — the aim is to force countries that purchase Iranian oil to choose between continuing trade with Tehran or preserving relations with the United States.
Such pressure could directly affect China, one of the world's largest buyers of Iranian oil. But the consequences may also extend indirectly to Russia, which continues its military aggression against Ukraine.
Why it matters
Oil exports remain one of Iran's main sources of revenue, and restricting them could weaken Tehran's economic capacity. Since Iran and Russia have deepened cooperation in several areas in recent years, pressure on one of these countries could indirectly affect the other as well.
Specific timelines or mechanisms for how the US plans to enforce this choice between Iran and Washington have not yet been disclosed.
