The Trump administration just announced that its Iran policy is not just aimed at setting tougher limits on its nuclear program. It is in fact about forcefully countering Iran’s political/military influence in the Middle East and beyond.
The European allies and other countries are on notice. Either they comply with Washington’s sanctions, or they will suffer the consequences. Time will tell if America, without the active cooperation of its key allies, can enforce this tough new Iran policy.
“You should know that we will hold those [European and other corporations] doing prohibited business in Iran to account. Over the coming weeks, we will send teams of specialists to countries around the world to further explain the Administration’s policy, discuss the implications of sanctions re-imposition, and hear your concerns.”
–Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, May 21, 2018