New Delhi, January 13, 2026, 3:09 p.m. IST
President Donald Trump has unleashed a bold economic weapon against Iran, declaring a 25 percent tariff on imports from any country engaging in trade with the Islamic Republic. The order, posted on Truth Social and effective immediately, aims to isolate Tehran economically as it battles widespread anti-government unrest.
Tariff Targets Key Partners
China stands as Iran’s dominant trading partner, snapping up over 25 percent of its exports, primarily discounted crude oil that fuels about 13.6 percent of China’s oil imports in early 2025. India follows with robust bilateral trade exceeding $1 billion annually, driven by rice, pharmaceuticals, and petrochemicals, while Turkey eyes $30 billion in exchanges despite current volumes around $3-4 billion yearly.
Other exposed nations include the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, and even distant players like Pakistan and Germany, per recent World Bank data on Iran’s 147 export destinations. No exemptions or enforcement details emerged from the White House, leaving global markets bracing for disruption.
"Effective immediately, any Country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25% on any and all business being done with the United States of America. This Order is final and conclusive…." – PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP pic.twitter.com/UQ1ylPezs9
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 12, 2026
Protests Grip Iran in Third Week
Sparked by the rial’s collapse on December 28, 2025, demonstrations have swelled into the fiercest challenge to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei since 1979. Activists report at least 544 deaths, including children, and over 10,600 arrests amid live fire and a multi-day internet blackout.
Verified videos show security forces targeting crowds in Tehran and provinces like Ilam and Bushehr, with Amnesty International decrying unlawful lethal force. State media counters with pro-regime rallies, blaming the U.S. and Israel without evidence.
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Trump Weighs Strikes, Iran Signals Talks
Trump revealed Iran initiated contact for negotiations, though he warned of action beforehand. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted airstrikes among options, while Trump voiced support for protesters on social media.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi insisted the unrest remains “under total control” and vowed retaliation against U.S. targets if attacked. Parliamentary leaders echoed threats to American assets, as protests spill abroad with incidents in Los Angeles and London
