The United States has announced new sanctions against companies linked to Iran’s oil and petrochemical trade. These sanctions target seven companies based in Iran, Turkey, and the UAE, along with two ships. The aim is to cut Iran’s oil income and limit its nuclear activities.
The US states that these sanctions are part of its “maximum pressure” policy against Iran. They come just days before new nuclear talks are set to begin in Rome.
Sanctions Target Iran’s Oil Exports
The US accuses the sanctioned companies of helping Iran sell oil and petrochemical products. These sales are a major source of income for the Iranian government. By stopping these deals, the US hopes to weaken Iran’s economy and hinder its nuclear program.
The US also sanctioned two ships that were involved in transporting these goods. This move shows that Washington continues to apply pressure on Tehran, even as diplomacy proceeds.
US and Iran to Meet in Rome
US and Iranian officials will meet in Rome on Saturday. The talks aim to address Iran’s nuclear activities. Past meetings have not made much progress, but both sides will try again.
Before meeting with the US, Iranian officials will talk to leaders from Germany, France, and the UK. These countries, known as the E3, want to keep the 2015 nuclear deal alive. The deal has faced challenges since the US left in 2018.
Growing Concerns Over Iran’s Nuclear Plans
Western countries have long suspected Iran of secretly trying to build nuclear weapons. Iran denies this. However, it has reduced its commitments to the 2015 deal, especially on uranium enrichment.
France has warned that if no agreement is reached soon, the UN Security Council could bring back global sanctions on Iran. This highlights the difficulty of finding a solution.
Trump Marks 100 Days with Big Claims
President Donald Trump celebrated 100 days in office for his second term. He claimed his presidency is the “most successful” in US history. He highlighted his tax cuts, including the removal of taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security.
Experts, however, warn that these cuts could increase the national debt, which is now $36.6 trillion. Trump’s team insists that his policies have attracted new investment.
Attacks on Political Opponents
At the same rally, Trump criticized Democrats, calling them “criminal” and “insane.” He said the court system blocks his agenda and dismissed polls showing low approval as “fake news.” When asked about the next Pope, he jokingly answered, “Myself.”
Biden-Era Officials Removed
Trump has removed several officials appointed by President Biden. This includes Doug Emhoff, the husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, from the Holocaust Memorial Museum board. Emhoff called the move politically motivated.
Trump also dismissed Susan Rice and Ron Klain, both former Biden advisors. He named himself head of the Kennedy Center and banned “woke” events, such as drag shows.
China’s Economy Slows Down
China’s economy is facing challenges. New data shows fewer manufacturing orders and lower business confidence. Beijing denies reports of trade talks with the US.
In response, China released a video called “Never Kneel.” The video presents China as strong compared to the West.
Trump Congratulates Canada’s New Leader
President Trump congratulated Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney after his election win. This came despite Trump’s past threats of annexing Canada. Carney emphasized protecting Canada’s sovereignty during his victory speech.
US to Label Haitian Gangs as Terrorists
Due to rising violence in Haiti, the US plans to label some of the country’s gangs as foreign terrorist groups. Congress has already been briefed on the plan. This move would change how the US handles security in Haiti.
US Backs Israel at UN Court
At the International Court of Justice, the US defended Israel’s blockade of Gaza. A US official said that aid must not reach Hamas, a terrorist group. The court’s ruling won’t be binding, but it may put pressure on Israel to ease the blockade.