Trump And Netanyahu Agree On Maximum Pressure Strategy
During recent talks at the White House, US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly agreed to step up economic pressure on Iran. Officials called the approach a “full force” continuation of the long-standing maximum pressure policy.
The plan is to make Tehran give up important parts of its nuclear program. Leaders think that coordinated financial restrictions could make Iran’s negotiating power much weaker.
Source: The Economic Times/Website
Targeting Iranian Oil Sales To China Emerges As Key Lever
One main option being looked at is limiting Iran’s oil exports to China, which is said to buy about 80% of the shipments. Policymakers think that this trade route is Tehran’s main source of income.
Stopping these flows could cut government revenue by a lot and limit investments in the military or nuclear weapons. But enforcing these kinds of measures could cause more problems with Beijing on a global scale.
Tariffs And Trade Measures Could Escalate Global Tensions
Trump could put tariffs of up to 25% on China if it keeps trading energy with Iran. These kinds of actions would be a big step up in economic diplomacy.
Analysts say that punitive tariffs could lead to retaliatory actions and make already fragile global trade relationships even worse. Still, supporters say that harsh steps are needed to stop the spread of nuclear weapons.
Recommended Article: Cuba Faces Deep Crisis Beyond U.S. Pressure
Negotiations Continue Despite Deep Skepticism
Oman will act as a mediator for another round of talks between the US and Iran in Geneva. But one American official is said to think there is “zero chance” of reaching a breakthrough deal.
Netanyahu agreed with the skeptics, saying that Tehran might not keep its promises even if a deal is reached. Trump was careful in his response, saying that negotiations should at least be given one serious try.
Proposed Nuclear Limits Show Major Areas of Disagreement
Reports said that there was a plan to make Iran stop enriching uranium for 3 to 5 years while moving 450 kilograms of highly enriched material. Reports say that Tehran flat-out turned down the framework.
Later, US officials denied offering such terms, which shows how unclear the negotiations are. Conflicting stories are still getting in the way of diplomatic progress.
Rubio Signals Openness To High-Level Diplomacy
Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, said that Trump would meet with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei if it would help ease tensions. He made it clear that conversation should not be seen as giving in.
Rubio said again that Washington’s position is that Iran should never get nuclear weapons. The government thinks that prevention is necessary for the stability of security around the world and in the region.
Military Presence Strengthens Economic Pressure Campaign
The United States is increasing its military presence in the region, including sending more naval assets to stop Iran from attacking. Officials say that having credible force makes it easier to negotiate.
Even though he is tough on crime, Trump is said to prefer a negotiated settlement to war. One of the most important geopolitical questions of 2026 is whether pressure tactics lead to compromise or confrontation.
