Trump signs executive order allowing tariffs on countries trading with Iran

US President Donald J. Trump on February 6 signed an executive order reaffirming the ongoing national emergency with respect to Iran and establishing a mechanism that would allow the United States to impose additional tariffs on countries that continue to trade with Tehran.

The order authorises the US government to levy tariffs on imports from any country that “directly or indirectly purchases, imports, or otherwise acquires any goods or services from Iran,” citing concerns over US national security, foreign policy, and economic interests, Caliber.Az reports per the White House. 

While the executive order does not set a specific tariff rate, it cites 25% as an example of the level that could be imposed. Any such tariffs would apply to goods imported into the United States from countries found to be conducting business with Iran.

The White House said the president retains the authority to modify the order if circumstances change, including in response to retaliation or if Iran or affected countries take “significant steps” to address US concerns and align more closely with Washington on security, foreign policy, and economic matters.

In a statement accompanying the order, the White House said: “The President is holding Iran accountable for its pursuit of nuclear capabilities, support for terrorism, ballistic missile development, and regional destabilization that endanger American security, allies, and interests.”

The executive order also authorises the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Commerce, and the United States Trade Representative to take all necessary actions to implement the tariff system, including issuing rules and guidance.

Trump has not directly commented on the executive order itself. However, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on the night of February 6, he reiterated that Iran must have “no nuclear weapons.”

The move comes after talks between senior US and Iranian officials in Oman, following several weeks of heightened rhetoric and threats from both sides.

Earlier this year, Trump publicly warned of sweeping trade penalties for countries doing business with Iran. In a January 12 post on his Truth Social platform, he wrote: “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.”

By Sabina Mammadli