Will economic pressure take priority in US policy toward Iran?

US shifts Iran strategy from airstrikes to sanctions

Rubio allegedly told counterparts from allied countries by phone that the US is not planning new airstrikes against Iran at this stage and will instead seek to increase economic pressure. Washington is reportedly keeping a naval blockade and new Treasury Department sanctions under consideration while preserving the option of military retaliation if Iran launches the first attack.

Scraper SystemAugust 26, 2026, 12:07 PM

US shifts Iran strategy from airstrikes to sanctions

The US strategy toward Iran is reportedly set to prioritize economic pressure over military attacks.

US officials said Rubio outlined Washington's policy toward Tehran during his latest phone calls with counterparts from allied countries. Rubio allegedly said the US was not planning new airstrikes against Iran "at this stage."

Economic tools on Washington's agenda

The US administration will reportedly focus on a naval blockade and new sanctions announced by the Treasury Department to increase pressure on Iran. A US official said Washington had clearly told its counterparts that it was not planning a new military operation.

The same official said the US would keep the option of military retaliation on the table if Iran became the first side to launch an attack.

Mine clearance in the Strait of Hormuz

Another US official described the US Navy's clearance of mines in the Strait of Hormuz as a turning point in the conflict. The official said the move had largely neutralized one of Iran's important sources of leverage.

Economic options could reportedly remain a priority after the US midterm elections. Military action against Iran could allegedly return to the agenda after the elections.

Source: Anadolu Ajansı

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US shifts Iran strategy from airstrikes to sanctions

Stay Updated with Hilal Times

Economic tools on Washington's agenda

Mine clearance in the Strait of Hormuz

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