US Sanctions Iran, China Buys Its Oil, Undermining Pressure Campaign

The United States announced unprecedented sanctions aimed at crippling Iran's economy, but Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent avoided directly targeting China, which buys most of Iran's oil. Analysts say this omission highlights Washington's dilemma in pressuring Tehran without provoking Beijing. The new "Operation Economic Outcast" sanctions over 60 entities, including Chinese firms linked to Iran's nuclear and missile programs. However, China continues importing over 500,000 barrels of Iranian oil daily through ship-to-ship transfers, undermining U.S. efforts to isolate Iran economically. Washington fears Chinese retaliation, especially after last year's tariff war disrupted U.S. manufacturing. China's foreign ministry condemned the sanctions as "illegal and unreasonable," vowing to protect its interests. A U.S.-China summit is expected next month, with officials hoping Beijing will pressure Tehran.