Business

US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he is imposing a 25% tariff on goods from countries that have business relations with Iran. This decision comes as protests against the Iranian government continue for a third week. Trump shared this news on social media, stating that the tariff is "effective immediately," but he did not specify what "doing business" with Iran means. China is Iran's biggest trading partner, followed by Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and India. This tariff follows Trump's warning that he might use military action if Iran harms protesters. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said that military options, including air strikes, are still being considered. On Truth Social, Trump wrote, "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." He added, "This Order is final and conclusive." The White House did not provide further details about which countries will be most affected by the tariffs. Protests began in late December due to the sharp decline in the value of Iran's currency, the rial. This situation has become a significant challenge for Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA) reported that nearly 500 protesters and 48 security personnel have died, while sources tell the BBC that the actual death toll may be higher. Additionally, thousands of protesters have reportedly been arrested.