Trump signs Executive Order imposing tariffs on countries trading with Iran

President Trump signed an Executive Order on February 6, 2026, reaffirming the national emergency with respect to Iran and establishing a framework to impose tariffs—potentially up to 25%—on countries that directly or indirectly purchase goods or services from Iran. The order, effective February 7, 2026, was issued under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and aims to isolate Iran economically while protecting U.S. national security and economic interests. The measure represents a significant escalation in secondary sanctions policy, threatening to penalize America's trading partners for doing business with Iran. The order has raised concerns about potential overreach of executive authority and the weaponization of trade policy to coerce foreign nations.

"The United States will impose tariffs on countries that directly or indirectly purchase goods or services from Iran, potentially up to 25%, to protect our national security and economic interests." — From the White House fact sheet announcing the Executive Order on February 6, 2026