Iranian Leaders Admit Economic Toll of War with US as Trade Drops 35%

Iranian leaders have publicly acknowledged the severe economic consequences of the ongoing conflict with the United States, as trade has plummeted by 35% since the war began six months ago. The Trump administration has intensified financial pressure on Tehran, describing the latest measures as an 'economic D-Day' aimed at crippling Iran's economy. Washington has warned countries to sever business ties with Iran or face secondary sanctions, although the Treasury Department has refrained from penalizing major trade partners like China and India to avoid global economic repercussions. In response, some Iranian officials have threatened military retaliation, while the navy asserts control over the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway that gives Iran leverage over global energy markets. Amidst these tensions, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited an exhibition of contemporary paintings by the Minab School in Tehran on Friday, a cultural event that underscores the ongoing artistic life in the country despite the crisis.