Trump Warns Nations Trading With Iran of Tariffs

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that countries which continue to do business with Iran will face economic penalties from the United States.

In a post on social media today, President Trump said that any country trading with Iran will be charged a 25 per cent tariff on all its trade with the United States. He said the new rule will take effect immediately.

Meanwhile, the White House said President Trump is keeping all options open in dealing with Iran, including the use of military force. However, officials stressed that diplomacy remains his preferred option.

Speaking to the media, U.S. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Trump is willing to listen to diplomatic messages from Iran, even though Iran’s public statements do not always match what the U.S. is hearing through private channels. She added that while Trump prefers talks, he is not hesitant to use military action if he believes it is necessary to protect U.S. interests.

Ms. Leavitt also confirmed that President Trump is scheduled to meet Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on Thursday, highlighting the administration’s continued focus on international political developments.