US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order threatening additional tariffs on countries that continue trading with Iran, escalating pressure as indirect talks between Washington and Tehran continue.
The order, issued on Friday, does not set a fixed tariff rate but cites 25 percent as a possible benchmark. It states that the measure could apply to goods imported into the US from any country that directly or indirectly purchases goods or services from Iran.
While Trump has not commented directly on the order, he reiterated that Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One. The move comes as senior US and Iranian officials hold talks in Oman aimed at easing tensions following weeks of public threats from both sides.
The White House said the executive order reaffirms what it described as an ongoing national emergency related to Iran, adding that the president retains the authority to amend the measures if circumstances change. It accused Tehran of pursuing nuclear capabilities, supporting armed groups, and destabilising the region.
Separately, the US announced new sanctions targeting entities accused of trading in Iranian oil, petroleum and petrochemical products. Iran has not issued an immediate response.
Iran is already subject to extensive US and Western sanctions linked to its nuclear programme, which Tehran insists is peaceful. Restrictions were tightened after Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement during his first term, reimposing sanctions that severely damaged Iran’s economy and penalised countries doing business with it.
Despite these measures, Iran continues to trade with more than 100 countries. China remains its largest export partner, followed by Iraq, while the UAE and Turkey also account for significant trade volumes.
Officials involved in the Oman talks described the discussions as constructive, with further meetings expected in the coming days. Trump said Iran appeared eager to reach a deal, warning that failure to do so would carry serious consequences.
Rising tensions have fuelled fears of a broader confrontation, with Trump repeatedly signalling readiness to take military action if negotiations collapse, while Iran continues to deny any intention to develop nuclear weapons.