Trump’s sanctions against Iran help the US’s enemies and weaken its friends | Simon Jenkins

Economic sanctions never work – they are a blunt tool that will destabilise the Middle East and embolden hardliners

Economic sanctions are state aggression. As of today, those imposed by the US against Iran are broadened to embrace any country, company or individual dealing with Tehran. A few lucky “friends” of Donald Trump – China, India, Iraq, Turkey, Korea – may escape. The EU has also promised to help companies that resist, but that may not count for much. Almost every international corporation does some business with the US. Trump’s edict that his enemy’s friend is his enemy is a declaration of war on his friends.

Related: Iran launches military drill in response to return of US sanctions

Continue reading...

from US news | The Guardian https://ift.tt/2yR0WPC