US sanctions on Iran aim to force economic collapse

The United States announced new economic sanctions against Iran on Monday, which President Donald Trump claims will lead to the country's complete collapse, comparing the measures to an invasion. Six months after the US initiated military action against Iran, the conflict remains deadlocked with peace talks stalled and traffic through the closed Strait of Hormuz severely restricted. Facing domestic criticism over war costs, Washington has shifted focus to economic measures, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent describing the package as an "economic D-Day" and the largest financial offensive ever against an enemy. Iran dismissed the plan as evidence of US failure in the war, with Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi questioning why such extensive economic action is needed if Washington's stated goals were already achieved. Trump has cited Iran's nuclear program as justification for the February war, despite claiming it was already eliminated in 2025 attacks.