Iran vows retaliation after US expands sanctions

Iran threatened retaliation after the Trump administration announced new sanctions Monday to isolate the country economically and pressure it to end the nearly six-month war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent detailed "Operation Economic Outcast," urging nations to sever financial ties with Iran or face exclusion from the U.S. dollar system. Iranian Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh said Iran was "fully prepared," warning enemies should expect an attack. China, Iran's largest oil buyer, criticized the sanctions as tension-escalating and vowed to protect its interests. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected U.S. "bullying," demanding a change in tone during Pakistan-mediated negotiations.