Trump Resumes ‘Maximum Pressure’ Strategy Against Iran Amid Netanyahu Visit

Trump Resumes ‘Maximum Pressure’ Strategy Against Iran Amid Netanyahu Visit

In a significant move, President Donald Trump revealed an executive order on Tuesday that reinstates a “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran. This announcement coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the White House, underscoring the close ties between the two nations on national security matters.

During a press interaction, Trump disclosed that he felt “torn” about signing the order, expressing that he was “unhappy to do it.” However, he emphasized that the executive order would impose rigorous measures on Iran. “Hopefully, we’re not going to have to use it very much,” he remarked, suggesting a cautious approach to escalating tensions.

Economic Sanctions Targeting Iran’s Oil Exports

The executive order mandates the Treasury Department to implement robust economic sanctions aimed at crippling Iran’s oil exports. This aggressive strategy follows his first administration’s similar initiative, which sought to increase sanctions and enforce stringent penalties for non-compliance.

Lawmakers Push for an Assertive Stance

Lawmakers from both parties are advocating for intensified pressure on Iran. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and John Fetterman (D-Penn.) introduced a resolution affirming that all options remain viable for addressing Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Graham has stated that allowing Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon would be “one of the most destabilizing and dangerous events in world history.” This sentiment emphasizes the bipartisan concern surrounding Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Furthermore, Graham articulated that the current moment offers a pivotal opportunity to address Iran’s nuclear threat decisively. He asserted that the U.S. should support Israel if it chooses to “decimate” Iran’s nuclear initiatives, highlighting a call for international cooperation in tackling this pressing issue.

The Fallout of Previous Agreements

Following Trump’s withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in May 2018, Iran faced strict sanctions. This agreement, originally brokered during the Obama administration, had lifted sanctions in exchange for Iran limiting its nuclear program. With Trump’s reinstatement of the maximum pressure campaign, a return to such negotiations appears increasingly unlikely.

Potential for Future Negotiations

In January, Trump signaled tentative optimism regarding a possible nuclear deal with Iran when he was asked about the implications of Israel targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. “We’ll have to see. I’m going to be meeting with various people over the next couple of days,” he stated, indicating that discussions might lead to potential diplomatic pathways.

Trump expressed a desire for Iran to engage in negotiations, stating, “Hopefully, that could be worked out without having to worry about it.” The landscape of international relations remains fluid as the U.S. navigates its role in Middle Eastern security.

Complementary Executive Orders

On the same day as the Iran announcement, Trump issued other consequential executive orders, including the decision to withdraw the U.S. from the United Nations Human Rights Council and to halt funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). These actions reflect Trump’s broader strategy to redefine America’s international commitments.

The Road Ahead

The reinstatement of the maximum pressure campaign against Iran indicates a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, aiming to curb Tehran’s regional influence. As tensions mount, the effectiveness of this strategy remains to be seen. Analysts will monitor how both Iran and Israel respond to these developments and whether diplomatic avenues will emerge amid rising tensions.

Fox News’ Morgan Phillips contributed to this report.