Pakistan’s Army Chief Heads to Tehran as US Prepares Major Sanctions on Iran

Pakistan’s top military official traveled to Iran on Monday in an effort to revive diplomatic mediation, hours before the United States was set to unveil a sweeping new round of financial pressure against Tehran.

Pakistan Steps in to Mediate

Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, who has built a personal relationship with the US president, arrived in Iran for talks described by Islamabad as part of efforts to promote regional peace and stability. He is expected to meet figures close to Iran’s supreme leader. Oman’s foreign minister is also due in Tehran on Tuesday to discuss the Strait of Hormuz.

US Treasury Chief Promises “Economic D-Day”

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington would launch what he called the greatest financial offensive ever assembled against a single country, aimed at nations still trading with Iran. Iran responded by threatening to halt all oil exports from the Gulf and warned it could block the Strait of Hormuz entirely.

Tensions Rise at Sea

A projectile struck a tanker near the Saudi port of Yanbu on the Red Sea, sparking a fire on deck. Fewer than 20 ships crossed the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend. China said sanctions do not solve problems and vowed to protect its own interests, while oil prices dipped ahead of the announcement.