US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday (August 19, 2026) he was launching a major new campaign to target Iran’s economy, threatening “tremendous” punishment on any country that helps or does business with the West Asian nation.
Territory.”
In recent days, both sides have said messages were being exchanged, however Mr. Trump on Tuesday insisted talks were off and posted a message on social media suggesting the strait could be a “NEW U.S.
“I am also announcing that ANY country that allows its financial institutions, businesses, airports, or government entities to provide any type of lifeline to Iran will itself face TREMENDOUS Economic Consequences,” he said. The president’s comments come nearly a week after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the US would impose economic isolation on the country “like the world has never seen before. Earlier reporting noted: US President Donald Trump said Wednesday he was launching a major new campaign to target Iran’s economy, threatening “tremendous” punishment on any country that helps or does business with the Islamic republic.
