Trump's Economic D-Day Plan Hinges on Beijing's Cooperation

US President Donald Trump has announced an 'economic D-Day' aimed at crippling Iran's economy, but his plan faces a major obstacle: China.

China is the dominant buyer of Iranian oil, purchasing more than 80% of Tehran's exports in 2025, according to The New York Times. Washington's new strategy requires Beijing's cooperation, but threatening Chinese companies and financial institutions dealing with Iran could reignite US-China tensions just as Chinese President Xi Jinping prepares for a state visit to the White House.

Trump's economic squeeze relies on choking off Iranian crude already outside the blockade and shutting down the financial networks through which Tehran can sell oil and access its proceeds. However, this means Washington must confront Beijing, which has rejected US threats and warned that sanctions would lead to further escalation.