Trump Imposes Immediate 25% Tariff on Countries Trading with Iran
US President Donald Trump announced a significant economic measure on Tuesday. He declared a 25% tariff on any country conducting business with Iran. This decision aims to increase pressure on Tehran. The move comes as Iran faces widespread protests and a violent government crackdown.
Tariffs Take Effect Immediately
President Trump stated the tariffs would begin right away. He made the announcement through a social media post. "Effective immediately, any Country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25% on any and all business being done with the United States of America," Trump wrote. He emphasized the finality of the order by adding, "This Order is final and conclusive."
White House Comments on Options
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the situation earlier. She noted President Trump's approach to keeping all options available. "One thing President Trump is very good at is always keeping all of his options on the table," Leavitt said. She mentioned that airstrikes remain a possibility among many. "Diplomacy is always the first option for the president," she added, highlighting the preference for peaceful solutions.
Trump's Warnings to Iran
The US president has issued repeated warnings to Iran regarding its treatment of protesters. Trump has threatened military action if the violence persists. On Monday, he indicated Washington was closely watching the situation. The administration is considering possible military retaliation.
When questioned about potential Iranian strikes on American military bases, Trump responded firmly. "We will hit them at levels that they've never been hit before," he stated. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump suggested Iran was approaching a red line. "They're starting to, it looks like," he remarked, indicating escalating tensions.
Iran's Response and Accusations
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the United States and Israel of trying to destabilize Iran. He claimed they were fomenting unrest within the country. While promising to address public grievances, Pezeshkian issued a warning against violent protesters. He urged Iranian citizens to avoid "rioters and terrorists."
Ongoing Unrest and Human Toll
The tariff announcement coincides with continuing unrest across Iran. Activists report security forces using deadly force against antigovernment demonstrators. The protest death toll has reached at least 648 people since the demonstrations began. Experts expect this number to rise further.
More than 10,600 individuals have been detained over the past two weeks. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency provided these figures. The situation remains fluid and highly volatile.
