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US President Trump signaled possible easing of Iran oil sanctions to help the country rebuild, despite maintaining maximum pressure.
US President Donald Trump at the NATO summit in The Hague. (AP Photo)
UPDATED: Jun 26, 2025 04:18 IST
US President Donald Trump has stated that while Washington's "maximum pressure" campaign on Iran remains in place, including strict limitations on Iranian oil sales, there may be an easing of enforcement to help the country rebuild.
“They’re going to need money to put that country back into shape. We want to see that happen,” Trump said during a press conference at the NATO Summit when asked whether sanctions would be eased.
A day earlier, Trump remarked that China could continue purchasing Iranian oil following a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran. However, the White House later clarified that his comments did not reflect any official softening of US sanctions policy.
Trump previously targeted several Chinese independent refineries and port operators for continuing to import Iranian oil. Despite this, his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, told CNBC that Trump’s remarks were meant to signal cooperation rather than confrontation.
“It was a signal to the Chinese that we want to work with you—we’re not trying to harm your economy,” Witkoff said, adding that the US hopes this message will also resonate with Iran.
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Published By:
Aashish Vashistha
Published On:
Jun 26, 2025
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