U.S. Intensifies Economic Pressure on Iran as War Enters New Phase

President Donald Trump said Friday that Iran is eager for a deal but not prepared to accept terms he deems necessary, as the United States intensifies its economic pressure campaign nearly six months into the war. Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews, Trump characterized Iran's economy as in dire straits, citing inflation and a lack of funds for its military and police.

The remarks came as Washington escalated a strategy described by Vice President JD Vance and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as the most effective tool remaining. "The most effective tool that we have is the economic pressure that we can apply," Vance stated Thursday. Bessent pledged to impose the "toughest sanctions in history," aiming for a "coordinated economic isolation" that would compel nations to choose sides.

Iran, however, has swiftly moved to fortify its regional economic ties and dismiss the U.S. campaign. On Friday, Iranian officials announced they had finalized a preferential trade agreement with Oman as part of a broader push to strengthen commerce with neighbors. While the deal requires parliamentary approval in Tehran and has not been confirmed by Oman, it represents a concrete step in...