US sanctions on Iran draw China's rebuff, Red Sea tanker attack

The United States has threatened sweeping sanctions against countries trading with Iran, aiming to completely isolate it economically. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged nations to end all exchanges in certain sectors, warning that the US would act unilaterally otherwise. Iran has warned its neighbors against participating in what it calls America's "economic war," stating that countries imposing restrictions will be considered enemies. China has rejected US demands to join the sanctions, advocating for diplomatic solutions instead. A tanker in the Red Sea was attacked and set ablaze, with Yemen's Houthi rebels claiming responsibility. Oman's foreign minister is set to hold talks in Tehran regarding the Strait of Hormuz's future regulation.