Trump Threatens 50% Tariffs on Countries That Aid Iran's Military, Targeting China!
US President Donald Trump on Sunday threatened 50% tariffs on any country supplying weapons to Iran, and he said the warning also includes China. The statement was made via the Truth Social platform, days after Trump had previously threatened "tariffs of up to 50%" on those who support Iran's military capabilities.
Trump said the tariffs would be imposed "immediately" on all goods sold to the United States from countries found to have sent documents to Iran without delivering them. The message escalated Washington's economic pressure amid the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
The latest assertion targeted China, following media reports of Beijing's alleged military support for Tehran. Reuters reported that China has denied providing weapons to Iran.
In context, Trump's assertion came after US-Iran talks ended on Saturday without a peace agreement. The failure of these negotiations has meant that the diplomatic path has not yet produced a clear "de-escalation," so the risk of further action remains high in the market.
In terms of how this policy works, the 50% tariff serves as a pressure instrument that increases the cost of access to the US market for countries deemed to support Iran. Reuters also noted that there are limitations and legal challenges to imposing such broad tariffs, so the market will assess whether this threat translates into concrete action or becomes a negotiating tool.
Regarding future impacts, rising geopolitical tensions typically increase the risk premium on oil, as it is sensitive to supply disruptions and the security of shipping routes in the region. Gold tends to be supported when it rises because it is used as a hedge. The US dollar could strengthen if safe-haven flows dominate, but it could also be restrained if the market perceives a new trade war as adding to growth risks and policy volatility. Its movement will depend heavily on escalations in the region and follow-up tariffs against China. (asd)
Source: Newsmaker.id