Trump Announces Tariffs on Countries Engaging with Iran

On Monday, President Donald Trump declared he would impose a 25% tariff on nations conducting business with Iran. He made this announcement during a late afternoon post on Truth Social.

“Effective immediately, countries that do business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will incur a 25% tariff on all transactions with the United States,” he stated. “This order is final and conclusive.”

Earlier in the day, White House press secretary Caroline Levitt informed reporters that President Trump was contemplating various actions—including airstrikes and diplomatic avenues—in response to the Iranian regime’s treatment of protesters.

“President Trump excels at keeping all his options available. Airstrikes will be one of many options for the commander in chief, but diplomacy remains the president’s first choice,” Levitt commented when asked about the possibility of airstrikes being ruled out.

She added that Special Envoy Steve Witkoff would continue to play a significant diplomatic role regarding Iran.

Over the weekend, Trump remarked, “Iran is seeking freedom perhaps more than ever before,” indicating that the United States is poised to assist.

According to CNN, over 500 protesters have died, with more than 10,000 arrested amid the ongoing demonstrations against the Iranian government.

During his return to Washington, D.C., from Palm Beach, Florida, Trump mentioned that it seems Iran is beginning to violate its established red lines. He stated, “It appears that people who should not have been killed were killed,” and criticized Khamenei’s regime for ruling through violence.

He also noted that some protesters had died due to trampling or were shot during the chaos.