Washington, Jan 13 (NationPress) - On Monday, US President Donald Trump declared that nations engaging in trade with Iran will incur an additional 25% tariff on their transactions with the United States, marking a more stringent stance towards Tehran and its global associates.

For India, this translates to an astonishing 75% tariff on all products exported to the United States, a situation that could severely affect Indian enterprises.

“Effective immediately, any country conducting business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will be subjected to a 25% tariff on all trade with the United States of America,” Trump stated via a social media post.

“This order is final and conclusive,” he emphasized. “Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

The announcement did not clarify how the tariff would be enforced or which industries would be impacted.

Earlier that day, the White House indicated that Trump is seeking diplomatic engagement with Iran while keeping military options readily available, as protests continue within the nation and behind-the-scenes communications suggest a different narrative from Tehran.

White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt remarked that the President is focused on preventing further violence while considering private communications from Iranian officials.

“He certainly doesn’t want to witness any casualties in the streets of Tehran, and sadly, that’s a reality we are observing right now,” Leavitt told reporters during a briefing at the White House.

When asked if the administration is still aiming for complete denuclearization, Leavitt refrained from detailing specific terms but emphasized the President's flexibility and preparedness to escalate if necessary.

“One thing President Trump excels at is keeping all options available, and airstrikes would be among the numerous options considered by the Commander in Chief,” she stated.

Simultaneously, she reiterated that diplomacy remains the administration’s primary approach.

“Diplomacy is always the initial choice for the President,” Leavitt noted, adding that the messages received privately from Iran contrast sharply with the public rhetoric of the regime.

“What you are hearing from the Iranian regime publicly is quite different from the messages the administration is receiving privately, and I believe the President is interested in exploring these communications,” she stated.

Leavitt mentioned that Special Envoy Steve Witkoff continues to play a pivotal role in diplomatic efforts regarding Iran.

“I understand that Steve Witkoff will remain a very significant player in Iran diplomacy,” she said.

She also highlighted that Tehran is aware of the President’s previous actions and his readiness to act decisively.

“However, it should be noted that the President has demonstrated he is not hesitant to utilize military options when he deems it necessary, and that is well understood by the Iranians,” Leavitt remarked.

The comments arise amidst escalating tensions following unrest in Iran and renewed examination of the US strategy towards the Islamic Republic.