Iran Threatens ‘Devastating’ Response as U.S. Prepares Toughest Sanctions Yet
Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated again Friday after Tehran warned that any new U.S. threats would be met with a “devastating” response, as Washington prepares a sweeping new package of economic sanctions against the Islamic Republic.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the United States is preparing what he described as the toughest sanctions ever imposed on Iran. More details about the measures are expected to be released soon as Washington increases economic pressure on Tehran.
Iranian officials responded strongly to the announcement. Iranian military leaders warned that the country is prepared to respond across its defense capabilities if it faces additional threats from the United States.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf also called on the country to prepare for increased economic pressure, accusing the United States and Israel of waging economic and psychological warfare against Iran.
Pressure on Iran’s Oil Industry
The latest U.S. pressure is already having an impact on Iran’s energy sector.
Iranian crude oil offers to Chinese buyers have fallen sharply as the U.S. blockade disrupts Tehran’s ability to export oil. China has traditionally been the largest buyer of Iranian crude.
Iranian oil imports into China fell to approximately 534,000 barrels per day in August, compared with an average of around 1.4 million barrels per day in 2025.
The decline could significantly reduce one of Tehran’s most important sources of revenue.
Strait of Hormuz Remains a Major Concern
The escalating confrontation is also raising concerns about shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy routes.
Only seven commodity vessels passed through the strategic waterway on Thursday, according to shipping data reported by Reuters.
Any prolonged disruption in the region could put additional pressure on global energy supplies and push oil prices higher.
Oil markets are already reacting. Brent crude remains above $90 per barrel and is heading toward another weekly gain as traders monitor the U.S.–Iran confrontation.
What Happens Next?
The next major development could come when Washington releases the full details of its new sanctions package.
For now, neither side appears ready to back down. The combination of tougher U.S. economic pressure, Iran’s warning of retaliation and continued disruption around the Strait of Hormuz means tensions in the Middle East remain extremely high.
Markets, governments and energy traders around the world will be watching closely for the next move from Washington and Tehran.