Axios reports that during their recent meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reached an agreement to significantly ramp up pressure on Iran. This strategy includes reducing Iranian oil exports to China, the largest importer of Iranian oil, which receives over 80% of Iran's oil exports despite U.S. sanctions. This partnership allows China and Iran to operate mainly in Chinese yuan to avoid U.S. regulatory scrutiny.

According to the American officials referenced by Axios, the increased economic pressures on Iran are intended to compel the nation to make more significant concessions regarding its nuclear program. This effort is expected to coincide with ongoing negotiations with Tehran while also enhancing military preparedness in the Middle East in anticipation of possible military actions if diplomatic efforts do not succeed.

Furthermore, it was noted that just about ten days prior, Trump had signed an executive order threatening to impose a 25% tariff on countries engaging in trade with Iran. This move underscores the U.S. strategy to isolate Iran economically and increase the stakes in its dealings regarding nuclear development and regional military dynamics.