Motorcyclists pass a billboard depicting U.S. President Donald Trump with hands around his neck beneath the words "Revenge is inevitable" in Tehran, Iran. (Photo: AP)The United States has launched a sweeping new round of sanctions against Iran, aimed at cutting off all financial lifelines to Tehran’s government. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed the move, and said President Trump is pushing US allies to back the measures too.Iran has responded defiantly, with officials warning of serious consequences if Washington keeps up the pressure including threats to shut down Gulf oil exports and warnings that any country siding with the sanctions could be treated as taking part in an act of war. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has signalled that military options remain firmly on the table.Story continues below this adUS officials say the new sanctions target five key sectors digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping along with Iran’s oil revenue and roughly 60 entities, vessels and individuals accused of propping up the regime.Iranian government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani said the country’s leadership would guide Iran through the coming “economic hardships.”Iran’s security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, warned that Tehran could halt all Gulf oil exports if the US economic pressure campaign continues.Rezaei added that any country backing Washington’s sanctions would be treated as taking part in an act of war against Iran.US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Washington has not ruled out military strikes against Iran, in the Strait of Hormuz or elsewhere in the region.Follow The Indian Express Global Desk for live coverage of the day’s top world news.Live UpdatesAug 25, 2026 08:30 AM ISTWelcome to our live blogHello, Welcome to our live blog, bringing you the latest global updates as they happen today.he escalating standoff between Iran and the US, and the deepening trade war between Canada and the US over tariffs. Stay with us as we bring you the latest developments on both fronts throughout the day.Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd