Trump's Iran Sanctions Face China Test

The Trump administration's new economic pressure campaign against Iran faces a major obstacle in China, Iran's largest trading partner and primary oil buyer, raising doubts about its effectiveness. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced "Operation Economic Outcast" targeting nearly 60 Iran-linked entities, but avoided specifics on China as President Trump prepares to host Chinese leader Xi Jinping next month. Beijing said its Iran cooperation falls within international law and will take measures to safeguard its interests. Analysts say China will likely do the minimum to comply without confronting the U.S., such as modestly reducing oil imports, while Washington avoids tough action on Beijing to preserve the fragile trade truce and upcoming summit.