US Unveils 'Toughest Sanctions in History' on Iran, Presses China for Cooperation

The United States has announced plans to impose what it calls 'the toughest sanctions in history' on Iran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the new measures would complement an existing US blockade and help prevent a return to large-scale military action.

Bessent made the comments during an interview with CNBC, where he stated that the sanctions would work alongside the existing blockade to 'collapse this regime'. He added that a news conference would be held on Monday to explain the measures in more detail.

The dispute has already pushed oil prices above three-week highs. Bessent called on China to cooperate with Washington's efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and bring down energy prices, citing China's dependence on Gulf energy as a key reason for cooperation.

China is the main buyer of Iranian crude, accounting for over 80% of Iran's shipped oil in 2025. Bessent hinted that further action against Chinese companies dealing with Iran could have wider economic consequences, but stopped short of providing details.