In a decisive escalation of tensions with Tehran, US President Donald Trump announced on May 1 that countries purchasing Iranian oil or petrochemical products will face secondary sanctions, warning that violators will be barred from doing business with the United States. The move threatens to further destabilize ongoing nuclear negotiations and inflame regional tensions, even as both sides claim to remain open to diplomacy.

Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump declared, “All purchases of Iranian oil or petrochemical products must stop, now!” He warned that any nation or entity continuing such trade “will not be allowed to do business with the United States of America in any way, shape, or form.” The announcement marks a sharp tightening of Washington’s already aggressive sanctions regime against Tehran, and signals that Trump is willing to use the full force of American economic power to isolate Iran internationally.

The announcement follows action by the US State Department, which on April 30 sanctioned seven companies accused of participating in what it labeled the “illicit” trade of Iranian energy products. Those targeted included six companies based in the United Arab Emirates, a Turkish company, and an Iranian entity. Washington’s allegations included charges that Tehran was advancing its nuclear program, fueling conflicts across the Middle East, and backing “terrorist partners and proxies” in the region.

Interestingly, the US Treasury Department remained silent on the latest sanctions developments, an unusual move that suggests Washington’s approach may be led........

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