Trump threatens sanctions on countries helping Iran

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 21, 2026

Photo courtesy: The White House

WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump threatened economic penalties against countries that continue doing business with or providing financial support to Iran as Washington intensifies pressure on Tehran nearly six months into the war.

Trump said countries that allow their banks, businesses, airports or government agencies to support Iran could face “tremendous economic consequences.”

He described the new campaign as the toughest economic action ever imposed on a country but did not specify what penalties would be used or which countries could be targeted.

The announcement follows Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s warning on August 13 that the United States would impose unprecedented economic measures aimed at further isolating Iran.

Washington has already targeted Iran’s oil exports and financial networks while maintaining pressure on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for global oil supplies.

Shipping through the strait remains heavily disrupted despite efforts to keep oil moving through the region.

The latest threat signals that the Trump administration is expanding its campaign beyond direct military action by targeting countries and businesses that help support Iran’s economy.