Trump escalates sanctions against Iran to unprecedented levels

In August 2026, the United States expanded its secondary sanctions against Iran, targeting entities that maintain business ties with the country. President Donald Trump announced these measures as part of an intensified economic campaign, aiming to sever all financial support for the Iranian regime. The U.S. Treasury identified networks facilitating oil smuggling and imposed sanctions on nearly 60 entities involved in these operations. The Iranian economy is reportedly facing severe distress due to these sanctions, which are designed to weaken its military capabilities and nuclear ambitions.