US President Donald Trump has threatened to intensify economic pressure on Iran, describing a possible move as an “economic D-Day,” according to an Al Jazeera report published on August 23, 2026. The report says Washington is considering further measures despite the extensive sanctions already imposed on Iran.

Analysts cited several possible options: sanctions on Chinese independent oil refineries that buy Iranian crude, measures against major Chinese banks processing Iranian transactions, disruption of goods entering Iran by land, and additional tariffs on products from countries trading with Iran. The United States has already sanctioned one Chinese “teapot” refinery over Iranian oil purchases, though such firms have limited direct links to the US financial system.

Targeting two major Chinese banks could significantly affect China’s financial system and invite retaliation against the United States. A land blockade would require cooperation from all seven of Iran’s neighbouring countries, making it difficult to implement. Tariffs on countries trading with Iran could also face legal obstacles in Congress and US courts, while broader actions risk commercial and diplomatic consequences for Washington.