Trump Proposes Adding Tariffs on Iran in Sanctions Bill Despite Minimal Trade
President Donald Trump suggested that Congress should include additional tariffs against Iran as part of a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting Russia and Tehran. However, experts argue the move is largely symbolic due to minimal U.S.-Iran trade—amounting to just $1.4 million in imports in 2025, mostly consisting of art and antiques. The proposed legislation already includes economic sanctions on Russia and its allies but faces potential hurdles if Trump's demand for added tariffs against Iran is incorporated. While the bill has broad bipartisan support, Trump’s push to include tariffs could polarize lawmakers who are critical of his trade policies. The U.S. has maintained extensive sanctions on Iran for decades, with further measures aimed at constraining Tehran during ongoing hostilities. The inclusion of tariffs may undermine the bill's chances in Congress as Democrats have criticized Trump's aggressive use of tariffs recently.
