US Sanctions on Iran Face Key Test in China

The Trump administration launched "Operation Economic Outcast" on August 24 to isolate Iran financially, but experts say its success depends on Washington targeting major Chinese banks and oil buyers. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned violators face removal from the US dollar system, though few immediate measures were announced. Former officials say the campaign's credibility hinges on whether the US sanctions Chinese financial institutions central to Iran's oil revenue. China's embassy rejected sanctions as a solution, while experts note Beijing could retaliate, potentially escalating into a broader US-China economic confrontation. The administration aims to force Iran back to negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz and nuclear issues, but experts question whether economic pressure will achieve political concessions. They warn of potential humanitarian consequences and note Iran has survived severe sanctions before.