ADDRESSING THE IRANIAN REGIME: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order that reaffirms the ongoing national emergency concerning Iran and initiates a framework for imposing tariffs on nations that engage in trade with Iran. This step is framed as a protective measure for the national security, foreign policy, and economic interests of the United States.
- The Order establishes a mechanism enabling the United States to levy additional tariffs on imports from any country that purchases, imports, or otherwise obtains goods or services from Iran, whether directly or indirectly.
- The President retains the authority to amend the Order based on changing circumstances, including responses to retaliation or significant actions taken by Iran or any affected nation that align with U.S. national security priorities.
- The Order empowers the Secretary of State, Secretary of Commerce, and the United States Trade Representative to execute all necessary actions, including the issuance of rules and guidance, to implement this tariff system and associated measures.
COUNTERING IRAN’S DESTRUCTIVE INFLUENCE: The President holds Iran accountable for its ambitions regarding nuclear capabilities, support for terrorism, development of ballistic missiles, and actions that destabilize the region, all of which pose threats to American security, allies, and interests.
- Iran is recognized as the foremost state sponsor of terrorism, backing various proxy groups and militias throughout the Middle East, many of which have attacked U.S. personnel and are currently targeting American forces and allied nations.
- The regime’s management of its resources is telling; instead of investing in infrastructure and public welfare, it has opted to focus on nuclear and missile projects while its citizens face dire conditions.
- Internally, the regime employs brutal repression against its populace, leading to the death of thousands during protests, violating human rights, and using violence to cling to power, all while fostering extremism that undermines U.S. efforts toward peace and stability.
- Such actions represent a persistent and extraordinary threat to the United States, necessitating a sustained and robust response to safeguard American citizens, allies, and interests.
PUTTING AMERICA FIRST: President Trump has consistently maintained that Iran must not be permitted to develop nuclear weapons—a pledge he has reiterated throughout his presidency and campaign.
- Building on his record from his initial term, President Trump withdrew from the controversial Iran nuclear deal, implemented maximum pressure strategies, and designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.
- Upon resuming office, President Trump reinstated maximum pressure on Iran to prevent any pathways to a nuclear weapon and to mitigate its adverse influence on the global stage.
- In June, after Iran declined to negotiate a deal with the United States, President Trump authorized Operation Midnight Hammer, which targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities and significantly hindered Tehran’s nuclear aspirations.
- Recently, the President deployed a substantial naval force to the region, urging Iran to engage in negotiations aimed at establishing a fair deal that excludes nuclear weapons or face even more severe consequences.
- This is not the first instance of President Trump taking a hardline approach against regimes that threaten U.S. national security interests. Just this past month, he authorized operations to oust Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro and imposed tariffs on nations supplying oil to Cuba, underscoring his commitment to holding dictators and state sponsors of terrorism accountable.
