The U.S. administration plans to deploy new tools to curb Iranian oil exports to China and use this as leverage in talks on Iran’s nuclear program.
According to government sources, during a White House meeting on February 11, the U.S. president and the Israeli prime minister agreed to strengthen economic pressure on Tehran, including by restricting oil sales to China.
It is expected that reducing supplies to China – the main importer of Iranian oil – will significantly intensify economic pressure on the Tehran regime and may push it toward concessions within the framework of the nuclear deal.
Context and Expected Consequences
The article notes that recently the president signed an executive order allowing increased economic pressure on the Tehran regime. Specifically, the document authorizes the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Commerce to recommend imposing tariffs of up to 25% for any country doing business with Iran.
Experts estimate that a possible decrease in demand for Iranian oil from China could prompt Tehran to take more conciliatory steps regarding its nuclear program, but risks to global markets remain.
The discussion also touches on possible military scenarios in response to rising tensions, but decisions on any actions remain with the leadership. If an order is given, the U.S. military would take several weeks to carry out the operations.
“We agreed to apply maximum pressure on Iran, particularly with regard to oil sales to China. This could alter Tehran’s calculus and push it toward greater concessions on its nuclear program.”
– a senior official in the U.S. administration
In the context of these events, experts note the sensitivity of global energy markets and possible side effects from any restrictions, but emphasize the importance of unity on the international stage to achieve goals related to Iran’s oil and negotiations over its nuclear program.