Lagatar24 Desk
Washington: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned countries and businesses against supporting Iran, stating that Washington is considering fresh sanctions targeting airlines, maritime activity and digital assets as it expands its economic pressure campaign amid escalating hostilities in the region.
Bessent Warns of Broader Sanctions Beyond Banking and Oil
Bessent said the US was engaged in extensive discussions with anyone supporting Iran, adding that Washington would systematically target such actors. Pointing to potential future targets, he specifically mentioned airlines, maritime activity and digital assets, indicating that the pressure campaign could expand beyond traditional banking and oil-related measures, urging all parties to stay away from supporting the Iranian regime.
Warning Part of ‘Operation Economic Outcast’ Campaign
The warning comes as the Trump administration pushes forward its “Operation Economic Outcast” campaign, aimed at pressuring Iran’s remaining trading and financial partners to choose between continuing business with Tehran and maintaining access to the US financial system.
Fighting Resumes After Month-Long Lull
The latest escalation follows a month-long pause in hostilities. Iran fired on US allies in the Gulf early Wednesday following a night of American bombardment, which Iranian officials said included a strike on a wedding party that resulted in casualties. Fighting intensified after the US military struck Iranian rocket launchers on an island in the Strait of Hormuz, citing intelligence that Iran had planned to use them to deploy mines in the waterway.
Iran Retaliates with Missile and Drone Attacks Across the Region
Iran responded with missile attacks on US bases in Jordan, which were intercepted, and also launched drones at Kuwait, while the UAE and Bahrain reported intercepting incoming Iranian attacks. In Iraq, Kurdish authorities said they had intercepted 10 explosive-laden drones near Irbil.
