Trump's Iran Sanctions Threat: Can a Web of Trade Partners Save Tehran?
US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose severe economic sanctions on Iran, warning countries that continue to trade or support Tehran that they too could face consequences. However, despite these threats, Iran remains connected to a web of regional and global trade partners.
China is by far the most important destination for Iranian oil, accounting for over 80% of Iran's seaborne oil exports in 2025. Chinese refineries have developed sophisticated mechanisms to reduce their exposure to US sanctions, including relabelling Iranian oil as crude from other countries and using multiple intermediaries and settlements in Chinese currency.
The UAE has historically been one of Iran's most important economic lifelines, particularly through Dubai. However, the UAE recently suspended financial and economic transactions with Iran due to military escalation and missile threats from Tehran.