Trump Turns to Economic Squeeze on Iran Amid Military Campaign Failures

The Trump administration is reverting to economic pressure as a means of squeezing Iran's oil exports. This approach, dubbed 'Maximum Pressure' in Trump's first term, was previously unsuccessful in forcing Tehran to capitulate.

The US military campaign against Iran has so far failed to achieve its objectives, leading the Trump administration to shift focus back to sanctions and a naval blockade.

'Operation Economic Fury', led by Secretary Scott Bessent, aims to devastate the Iranian economy by targeting oil exports. The approach is based on the theory that economic pain will ultimately lead to political concessions from Tehran.