Trump vows tougher sanctions on Iran, says election timing irrelevant

President Donald Trump told one outlet that the United States is set to impose a suite of unprecedented economic actions aimed at weakening Iran after nearly six months of conflict. He added that a potential end to hostilities before the November midterm elections would not influence voters' views on the economy. Speaking on Long Island, Trump boasted about a "wall of steel" blockade of Iranian ports and joked about declaring the Strait of Hormuz U.S. territory.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, speaking to one outlet, said additional sanctions announcements are expected next week, describing them as unlike anything seen in economic isolation history. Ongoing skirmishes have kept oil and other commodities flowing through the strategic strait disrupted, with both sides accusing each other of bad faith in negotiations.