US unveils 'economic D-Day' against Iran, warns trade partners of sanctions

The US announced an "economic D-Day" campaign against Iran, threatening sanctions on any country doing business with Tehran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned trade partners face a timeline to sever ties or face unilateral punishment. The move aims to force Iran's capitulation after months of US bombing and decades of sanctions. Bessent said the US is targeting Iran's "most vital lifelines," including digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping, while threatening a major financial institution by week's end. The campaign risks clashing with China, Iran's main oil buyer. Analysts question whether the US will follow through on threats, noting Bessent's announcement was a warning rather than immediate action. Iran dismissed the threats, and US stocks fell slightly following the announcement.