Trump's New Sanctions Target Iran's Economy Through Dollar Weapon

The United States launched "Operation Economic Outcast" on Monday, a sweeping campaign to isolate Iran financially by targeting global networks that support its economy. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the operation, which expands secondary sanctions against foreign businesses and banks. The campaign targets five key sectors: digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping. Initial sanctions hit over 60 entities, individuals, and vessels linked to Iranian oil revenue, cyber operations, and nuclear procurement. Washington warned countries that continuing business with Tehran could result in losing access to the US dollar system. President Trump threatened "tremendous economic consequences" for any nation providing lifelines to Iran. China, which bought over 80 percent of Iran's shipped oil in 2025, presents a major test for the strategy. The administration aims to force Iran into either global isolation or economic reintegration on US terms.