Iran is facing intensifying US economic pressure after Washington announced new measures targeting networks that help Tehran circumvent sanctions, while the Islamic Republic signals that its response could extend to energy markets, commercial shipping and even its nuclear programme.
According to an analysis by CNN, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced measures on Monday targeting a complex Iranian network built over years to bypass US sanctions, including channels involving digital assets, technology and maritime shipping.
Despite expectations of harsher steps, Washington focused primarily on expanding existing sanctions and tightening enforcement, while threatening penalties against countries that continue dealing with Iran.
1. Pressure on Oil Markets and Shipping
CNN said one of Tehran’s main options is to exert pressure on global oil markets.
Iran has previously disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, through which around one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies passed before the war.
The Iran-backed Houthis also opened a front in the Red Sea that targeted Saudi oil exports and infrastructure.
Iranian officials have threatened to widen the scope of potential attacks to include energy facilities and oil shipping routes that bypass the Strait of Hormuz.
CNN quoted Mohsen Rezaei, a member of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, as warning that the continuation of the economic war could prevent oil exports from the Gulf, while promising a response “like an earthquake”.
2. Expanding the Geographic Scope of the Confrontation
A second scenario would involve expanding the geographic reach of the confrontation.
Tehran has warned countries that could provide support for US and Israeli operations.
It has pointed to Bulgaria, a member of the European Union and NATO, as a possible target if Iran concludes that Bulgarian territory is being used to support military operations.
3. Reconsidering Iran’s Nuclear Policy
The third possible response is a reassessment of Iran’s nuclear policy.
Calls have been growing inside Tehran for withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, while parliament is discussing proposed legislation on the matter.
Such a move would mark a further escalation in Iran’s response to mounting external pressure.
4. Economic Adaptation and Deterrence
The fourth option would be to continue adapting economically to sanctions while using escalation as a deterrent.
Sina Toossi, a senior fellow at the Centre for International Policy in Washington, told CNN that Iran still has the ability to transfer the effects of US pressure across the region by threatening energy flows, infrastructure and trade.
He said tightening the economic siege could push Tehran to increase pressure on multiple regional actors.
