US to expand sanctions, intensify economic pressure on Iran

The United States is preparing to expand its economic measures against Iran, aiming to intensify the pressure on Tehran’s economy, according to a report by the New York Times. This development marks a significant escalation in the U.S.’s ongoing sanctions campaign, which has been in place since the collapse of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. The expanded efforts are expected to target Iran’s revenue streams and its trade networks, further isolating the country economically. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the upcoming sanctions as potentially the toughest in history, indicating a shift towards more aggressive economic strategies. Key Takeaways The U.S. appears to be intensifying its economic campaign against Iran, consistent with efforts to further isolate Tehran financially. Market pricing suggests a decreasing likelihood of a favorable U.S.-Iran deal including reconstruction funding, as reflected in declining YES probabilities. Recent actions by the U.S. indicate a focus on expanding secondary sanctions, potentially affecting third-country entities engaged with Iran. What to Watch Watch for any official announcements from the U.S. Treasury regar...