Trump and Netanyahu Agree to Increase Economic Pressure on Iran
Leaders Target Iranian Oil Exports to China
US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to intensify economic pressure on Iran, focusing on curbing its oil sales to China, according to Axios on Saturday. The agreement came during a White House meeting on Wednesday, citing two American officials briefed on the discussions.
A senior US official said, “We agreed that we will go full force with maximum pressure against Iran, for example, regarding Iranian oil sales to China.”
Diverging Views on Diplomatic Approach
Trump and Netanyahu disagreed on how to achieve this objective. Netanyahu argued that a reliable agreement with Iran is unlikely and would probably be violated, while Trump expressed cautious optimism, stating, “We’ll see if it’s possible — let’s give it a shot.”
US officials noted that Washington plans to pursue a maximum pressure campaign in parallel with nuclear negotiations and a continued military buildup in the Middle East, keeping the option of military action available if diplomacy fails.
Economic Leverage on Tehran
With more than 80% of Iran’s oil exports going to China, any reduction in Chinese purchases could significantly increase economic pressure on Tehran. Officials believe this might push Iran toward making greater concessions on its nuclear program.
Additionally, Trump recently signed an executive order allowing the United States to strengthen economic sanctions on Iran. The order enables the heads of state and commerce departments to recommend tariffs of up to 25% on countries that continue trade ties with Tehran.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE