Kathmandu— Former U.S. President Donald Trump has pledged to impose what he termed an “economic D-Day” on Iran, vowing to target any country that continues to provide economic assistance to Tehran following the expiration of a 60-day negotiation window for a peace deal. The announcement, made via social media on Wednesday night, signals a shift from previous military threats towards comprehensive economic warfare and isolation. Trump warned of “tremendous economic consequences” for entities facilitating financial lifelines to Iran, including oil smuggling, swap lines, and ship registries. This comes after the United Arab Emirates suspended economic ties with Iran following alleged ballistic missile attacks.

Escalating Economic Threats

Trump outlined his plans in a series of posts on Truth Social, stating he was announcing “the MOST CRUSHING ECONOMIC OPERATION EVER TAKEN AGAINST ANY COUNTRY!” He detailed that this would involve economic warfare and isolation on an unprecedented scale. The former president specifically warned any country allowing its financial institutions or government entities to support Iran’s economy would face significant repercussions.

Strait of Hormuz Closure and Blockade

The threats follow a period of increased tension in the region, including the closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz by Iran shortly after joint bombing campaigns launched by the U.S. and Israel in February. Data from tracking service Kpler indicates that ship traffic through the strait—which handles approximately 25% of global seaborne oil and LNG trade—fell to six on Tuesday, below its recent daily average of eleven. The US Navy subsequently declared a blockade of Iranian ports in April, guiding ships along routes considered illegal by Iran.

Iranian Demands for De-escalation

Iranian officials have stated the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the U.S. lifts its blockade, releases frozen Iranian assets, and removes sanctions. Tehran has also demanded the withdrawal of US troops from the region as preconditions for a peace deal. While Trump previously paused military strikes to allow space for negotiations, he now claims those talks have been halted.

Claims of Military Readiness

Reports emerged last month suggesting the U.S. military had depleted its stockpile of high-precision munitions and interceptor missiles. However, both Trump and his War Secretary, Pete Hegseth, denied any shortages.

The situation remains tense as Iran maintains its demands for economic concessions and security guarantees before reopening negotiations or the Strait of Hormuz.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.