Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
President Donald Trump has threatened to impose secondary sanctions on any country or individual that purchases oil or petrochemicals from Iran.
Some shit you should know before you read: If you’re unaware, the United States has been sanctioning the shit out of Iran since President Trump’s return to office, ramping up his “maximum pressure” campaign with weekly announcements targeting the Iranian economic lifelines. The renewed effort has zeroed in on individuals and entities tied to Iran’s oil and gas sector, which the US views as a primary funding source for Iran’s destabilizing activities. Notably, Iran’s primary oil buyer is China, with estimates putting China’s share of Iran’s oil exports at over 70%. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), China has been importing over 1 million barrels per day from Iran, often through shadowy tanker routes and under-the-radar transactions. What makes Iranian oil lucrative to China is that it’s heavily discounted—often sold at $10 to $15 below market rates—and Iran offers flexible payment mechanisms that skirt the global financial system, such as yuan-based payments or crypto settlements.
What’s going on now: In an announcement, President Trump said, “All purchases of Iranian Oil, or Petrochemical products, must stop, NOW! Any Country or person who buys ANY AMOUNT of OIL or PETROCHEMICALS from Iran will be subject to, immediately, Secondary Sanctions. They will not be allowed to do business with the United States of America in any way, shape, or form.” These “secondary sanctions” are designed to punish not only Iran but also third-party nations and businesses—particularly aimed at deterring large importers like China—from continuing trade ties with Tehran.
Trump’s threat came amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran. Talks aimed at reviving or reshaping the 2015 Iran nuclear deal were abruptly postponed, with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi citing “logistical and technical reasons” for the delay. The fourth round of discussions was scheduled to take place in Rome with the involvement of Oman as a facilitator, but no new date has been set.
Despite the aggressive rhetoric, the Trump administration has indicated it still seeks a negotiated resolution over military action.
This all comes as Israeli officials voice growing concern that renewed talks could legitimize Iran’s enrichment program. A senior Israeli official, speaking anonymously, told local media: “Iran’s strategy is clear: delay, deceive, and continue enriching. Dialogue gives them cover.” That skepticism has revived speculation that Israel may take unilateral military action. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly told US counterparts that any agreement that doesn’t fully dismantle Iran’s nuclear infrastructure would be unacceptable to Israel.
