Donald Trump has dropped a major economic hammer on countries dealing with Iran, announcing a sweeping tariff that could reshape global trade dynamics.

Effective immediately, any nation conducting business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will face a 25% tariff on all trade with the United States, as declared by Trump in a recent Truth Social post. This policy targets key Iranian trade partners like China, which receives 80-90% of Iran’s crude exports, as well as Brazil, Turkey, and Russia. Meanwhile, unrest in Iran has escalated since protests erupted in December over inflation and the rial’s collapse, with over 500 demonstrators killed and more than 10,000 arrested, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).

Tariffs as a Foreign Policy Tool

Supporters contend that Trump’s tariff move is a bold step to pressure Iran’s regime while backing anti-regime protesters demanding change, according to the Sun. This isn’t the first time he’s wielded economic tools for geopolitical leverage. Recall his blockade of sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers, a decisive action that squeezed another adversarial regime.

Trump’s latest order, described as “final and conclusive,” signals no room for negotiation. “Effective immediately, any country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a tariff of 25 per cent on any and all business being done with America,” he posted on Truth Social. That’s a clear message to Beijing and others: pick a side.

But will this hit the intended target? Iran’s economy is already battered, and protesters are paying the ultimate price—shot with live ammo at close range, per reports of gruesome footage from Tehran’s coroner offices. Tariffs might sting trade partners, but they won’t stop bullets.

Iran’s Protests and Deadly Crackdowns

Since December, Iran’s streets have been a battleground, with protests swelling into the largest since 2009 over economic despair and political oppression. Over 500 deaths and haunting images of body bags underscore the regime’s brutal response. The U.S. State Department has urged Americans to leave Iran via Armenia or Turkey, citing escalating violence and travel disruptions.

Airlines are pulling back, with many canceling flights until at least mid-January. Internet blockages and road closures compound the chaos for civilians caught in the crossfire. It’s a dire scene, and Trump isn’t staying silent.

On Air Force One, he hinted at military options, saying, “We’re looking at some very strong options, we’ll make a determination.” That’s a loaded statement, given his readiness to act when red lines are crossed. A White House official even suggested to Axios that strikes on Iran could be on the table to punish the regime’s crackdowns.

Military Threats and Diplomatic Tensions

Yet, the White House insists diplomacy remains the priority. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that private messages from Iran differ from public rhetoric, hinting at potential backchannels. Still, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi called U.S. proposals “incompatible” with ongoing threats, casting doubt on talks.

Let’s be real: diplomacy sounds nice, but when a regime kills hundreds of its own people, words lose weight. Trump’s track record shows he’s not afraid to pivot to force if needed. The briefing on Iran options, slated for tomorrow, could mark a turning point.

The tariff itself might be a slow burn, especially for China, which relies heavily on Iranian oil. Economic pain could force Beijing to rethink its ties, but don’t hold your breath for a quick capitulation. Iran’s other partners, like Russia, aren’t exactly known for bowing to U.S. pressure either.

Balancing Act: Force or Negotiation?

What’s clear is that Trump sees Iran’s unrest as a critical issue, not just a distant problem. His threat of military action after the regime’s deadly crackdowns shows a willingness to escalate if provoked. Protesters deserve support, but any U.S. move risks a wider conflict.

The human toll in Iran is staggering—over 10,000 arrested, families queuing to identify loved ones. This isn’t just politics; it’s a tragedy unfolding in real time. The question is whether tariffs or tanks can address such deep-rooted oppression.

Ultimately, Trump’s dual approach—economic penalties and military posturing—puts adversaries on notice. While diplomacy is floated as the first step, the tariff hammer and hints of strikes suggest patience has limits. Iran’s regime, claiming control, might soon face a reckoning if it keeps crossing lines.