US President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social on 12/1 that his administration would impose a 25% tariff on any nation trading with the Islamic Republic of Iran, effective immediately. He declared the decision "final and unchangeable." According to Trading Economics, Iran's major trade partners include China, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Iraq.

This move comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, linked to a wave of anti-government protests across several Iranian cities. Iranian officials have not yet commented on the tariff announcement. The protests, which began on 28/12/2025, were sparked by small business owners' dissatisfaction with Iran's economic situation and the depreciation of the rial.

Iranian officials accuse "terrorist agents" from Israel and the US of inciting violent escalation of the protests. The US Department of State denies these claims, stating that Tehran is "distracting public opinion from internal issues." International organizations, citing local sources, reported that the Iranian government has blocked information nationwide, cut internet access, and restricted international communications. Some human rights organizations abroad stated that hundreds of protesters have died and thousands have been arrested.

US President Donald Trump at the White House on 9/1. *Photo: AFP*

President Trump repeatedly warned that Iran would face severe sanctions if more protesters died, and Washington kept military options against the country open. The White House chief previously stated that Iranian leaders had contacted him for negotiations. Russia, China, and Turkey, however, voiced opposition to foreign interference in Iran's affairs.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated on 12/1 that Tehran is engaged in a "four-front war": economic, psychological, "military warfare" with the US and Israel, and "against terrorist elements." Ghalibaf declared, "The great nation of Iran will not let enemies achieve their goals," warning that the Iranian military would teach President Trump "a lesson he won't forget" if the US attacked the country.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt further warned on 12/1 that the US is considering all viable options, including airstrikes against Iran. She added that Iran is maintaining diplomatic channels with US Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff and that Tehran has a "very different tone" in private exchanges.

By Nhu Tam (AFP, Reuters)