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Will Donald Trump’s new sanctions against Iran work?

Al Jazeera · 2026-08-23

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: President Donald Trump announced plans to impose "crushing economic measures" against Iran, marking a significant shift from military engagement to economic warfare after months of escalating conflict. • Why it matters: The effectiveness of these sanctions depends on international cooperation, and Iran has warned of retaliation against countries supporting the U.S. campaign, raising concerns about potential regional instability. • What to watch next: Analysts will closely monitor Iran's response to the sanctions and the level of international support for the U.S. measures, as the situation could significantly impact U.S.-Iran relations and the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.

**Title: Will Donald Trump’s New Sanctions Against Iran Work?**

In a significant shift in strategy, President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose what he describes as "crushing economic measures" against Iran. This decision comes after nearly six months of escalating conflict between the two nations, with previous attempts at reaching a diplomatic resolution having stalled. The U.S. administration is now calling for a coordinated international effort to isolate Iran economically, which it claims could be the most extensive such operation in history.

The announcement has raised questions about the potential effectiveness of these sanctions and the broader implications for U.S.-Iran relations. Trump’s administration aims to exert maximum pressure on Tehran, which has been a focal point of U.S. foreign policy in the region. The president's comments suggest a shift from military engagement to economic warfare, marking a new phase in the ongoing tensions.

Iran's response has been firm. Iranian officials have warned that any nations that align themselves with the U.S. in this economic campaign will be regarded as adversaries. This retaliatory stance raises concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region, as Iran may seek to respond to perceived threats against its sovereignty and economic stability.

Experts have weighed in on the situation, discussing the potential ramifications of the U.S. sanctions. Jamal Abdi, president of the National Iranian American Council, highlighted that the economic isolation could have profound effects on the Iranian economy, which is already under strain. Meanwhile, Hassan Ahmadian, a professor at the University of Tehran, emphasized the likelihood of Iran retaliating against countries that support the U.S. sanctions, suggesting that this could lead to a cycle of escalation.

Mark Pfeifle, former White House deputy national security adviser, noted that the effectiveness of the sanctions will depend on the level of international cooperation. The U.S. will need to convince other nations to join its efforts to maximize the impact on Iran's economy. However, the challenge lies in garnering support from allies who may be reluctant to jeopardize their own economic interests by participating in the sanctions.

As the situation develops, the international community will be closely monitoring Iran's response to the new sanctions. The potential for retaliation could complicate diplomatic relations and contribute to regional instability. The U.S. administration's strategy of economic isolation will be tested as it seeks to navigate these complex dynamics while attempting to achieve its foreign policy goals.

The outcome of this new approach remains uncertain, and analysts will be watching closely to see how Iran reacts in the coming weeks and months. The stakes are high, not only for U.S.-Iran relations but also for the broader geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.

Source: Al Jazeera
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