US sanctions on Iran target five sectors, but gradual approach may limit impact

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced new sanctions targeting Iran across five sectors, but analysts compare the measures to the less successful Anzio landing rather than D-Day. The sanctions aim to pressure Iran and countries doing business with it. The gradual approach threatens countries with losing access to the dollar-based financial system rather than imposing immediate penalties. Iran has historically evaded sanctions through front companies and Chinese partnerships, and Beijing is unlikely to join the measures, limiting their potential effectiveness. Iran's response remains the key factor for energy markets, with crude exports plunging to 255,000 barrels per day in August from 1.75 million bpd earlier this year. Brent futures fell 2.4% to $92.17 a barrel after the announcement but remain elevated due to uncertainty.