US Economic Campaign Against Iran Hits Roadblock in China

The US Treasury Department has launched an economic campaign against Iran's financial connections worldwide, dubbed 'Operation Economic Outcast'. The effort aims to isolate the Islamic Republic from its remaining economic partners. However, a major challenge for the Trump administration lies in China, which is Iran's biggest trading partner and leading oil buyer.

The US will need to balance maximum pressure on Iran with avoiding higher tensions with China that could harm the American economy. Analysts say China is unlikely to comply fully with the new campaign, given its own economic interests.

Lin Jian, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, said Beijing's cooperation with Iran is 'within the framework of international law'. China receives more than 80% of Iranian oil shipments but often through indirect channels. Beijing will likely take a cautious approach to avoid confrontation with the US.