US Tightens Iran Sanctions; Tehran Predicts New Defeat

The United States announced tightened economic sanctions against Iran and its trading partners, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent issuing threats. Iran responded with derision, predicting a "new defeat" for the US. Bessent warned that any country engaging in business with Iran would face the "full power" of US sanctions, including China, a major buyer of Iranian oil. He stated that no one is beyond reach and that institutions facilitating money laundering would be excluded from the US dollar system. Iran's economy minister said Tehran is prepared with a two-year plan to counter the measures. An expert cautioned that Iran's economy, while struggling, is far from collapse and that Tehran is ready to escalate the situation rather than accept pressure indefinitely.