Trump takes hard line on Iran: diplomacy halted, new tariffs imposed, open support for protesters
Washington (The Uttam Hindu): US President Donald Trump has taken a tough stance against Iran by announcing major steps. He has cancelled all meetings with Iranian officials, imposed new tariffs on Iran-related trade, and openly urged Iranian citizens protesting against the government to continue their movement.
Trump said these decisions were taken due to violence against protesters in Iran. Speaking at the Detroit Economic Club, he stated, “Until the senseless killings of protesters stop, I have cancelled all meetings with Iranian officials.”
Calling the current situation in Iran unacceptable, Trump said those responsible would be held accountable. Addressing what he described as “Iranian patriots,” he appealed to them to keep protesting. He said, “I urge all Iranian patriots to continue protesting and, if possible, take control of your institutions.”
Warning those involved in violence, Trump said they would have to pay a heavy price. Referring to reports of deaths in Iran, he said different figures were being reported. “I am hearing five different numbers, but even one death is too many. Accountability will be fixed and no one will be spared,” he said.
On the economic front, Trump announced that new pressure on Iran had come into effect immediately. “I have imposed tariffs on every person and country doing business with Iran. This is effective from today,” he said.
Describing tariffs as a key tool of his foreign policy, Trump said the aim was to economically isolate Iran. Using phrases similar to “Make Iran Great Again,” he criticised Iran’s current leadership, saying Iran is a great nation but its rulers have harmed it. He claimed that external pressure would bring change and added, “All I can say is that help is on the way.”
Trump said tariffs were a better option than long military campaigns and noted that trade pressure had delivered strong results in the past. He also mentioned strikes on nuclear sites and operations against terror leaders while discussing Iran. The President added that countries opposing US trade and security demands also face tariffs. According to him, tariffs create stronger pressure than diplomacy and are essential for national security.
It is important to note that the US and Iran have had no formal diplomatic relations for decades. Iran’s nuclear programme, regional influence, and human rights record have long been sources of tension between the two nations. The US has repeatedly used sanctions, tariffs, and secondary sanctions to pressure Iran, aiming to strengthen its strategic position while avoiding direct military conflict.