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The White House reported this Friday that President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order reaffirming the ongoing national emergency regarding Iran and establishing a process to impose tariffs on countries that purchase Iranian goods or services, arguing that it is necessary to protect national security, foreign policy, and the economy of the United States.
According to the statement, the Order establishes a system that allows Washington to impose additional tariffs on imports from any country that, "directly or indirectly," purchases, imports, or acquires goods or services from Iran.
The White House added that the president may modify the measure if "circumstances change," either in response to reprisals or if Iran or an affected country takes "meaningful steps" to address the national emergency and align with the U.S. on national security, foreign policy, and economic matters.
The document also states that the Order authorizes the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Commerce, and the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to take the necessary actions —including the issuance of rules and guidance— to implement the tariff system and related measures.
In its argument, the White House stated that the U.S. government seeks to "counteract Iran's malign influence" and held the country responsible for its pursuit of nuclear capabilities, its support of terrorism, the development of ballistic missiles, and its role in regional destabilization, which—according to the text—threatens U.S. security, allies, and interests.
The statement describes Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism in the world” and claims that it supports “terrorist groups and militias” in the Middle East, including those that “have killed and injured Americans” and that “actively attack” U.S. forces, regional partners, and allies.
He also argues that the Iranian regime has allocated resources to nuclear and missile programs while its infrastructure and population "struggle," accusing it of repressing its people, denying human rights, and using violence to remain in power.
The White House concludes that these actions constitute a “persistent, unusual, and extraordinary” threat that requires a “sustained and intensified” response to protect the citizens, allies, and interests of the United States.
In the section on political context, the statement reiterated Trump's position that "Iran cannot be allowed" to obtain a nuclear weapon and pointed out that, during his first term, the U.S. withdrew from the nuclear agreement with Iran, implemented the "maximum pressure" strategy, and designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a foreign terrorist organization. It also states that upon returning to office, Trump "restored" that maximum pressure.
The text also mentions previous actions attributed to this administration, such as an operation called "Midnight Hammer"—which, according to the White House, destroyed Iranian nuclear facilities and delayed their ambitions—and the deployment of a "huge armada" in the region to pressure Tehran into negotiations.
Finally, it refers to other recent measures against "hostile regimes," including operations in Venezuela and tariffs on countries that supply oil to Cuba, according to the statement itself.
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