Can an ‘Economic D-Day' End the Iran War?

The U.S. has entered a new phase in its six-month war with Iran, shifting focus from military strikes to an "economic D-Day" strategy spearheaded by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. This initiative aims to sever Iran’s global financial lifelines by imposing sanctions on over 60 entities and demanding the closure of all international branches of Bank Melli. Driven by political pressure ahead of midterm elections and the failure of military efforts to force a ceasefire or stabilize oil prices, the administration is attempting to isolate the Iranian regime. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains uncertain, as Iran continues to maintain a survival economy and has threatened retaliation against countries supporting the U.S. campaign. With the U.S. reluctant to directly sanction major trading partners like China, the strategy faces significant geopolitical hurdles and risks further military escalation in the Strait of Hormuz.