President Donald Trump reinstated a "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, marked by a new executive order and coinciding with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's White House visit. While expressing some reluctance, Trump emphasized the order's severity, designed to cripple Iran's oil exports through stringent sanctions. He voiced concerns about Iran's nuclear ambitions, stating his belief in their progress towards weapon development and the US commitment to preventing it.

This renewed pressure echoes Trump's previous approach towards Tehran, characterized by escalated sanctions and stricter enforcement. Congressional efforts mirror this stance, with a bipartisan resolution affirming that all options remain open to address Iran's nuclear threat. Senator Lindsey Graham underscored the gravity of a nuclear-armed Iran, labeling it a profoundly destabilizing global event. He advocated for decisive action against Iran's nuclear program, especially given what he perceives as Iran's current vulnerability.

Graham's call for action comes in the wake of Trump's withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA), which had eased sanctions in exchange for limitations on Iran's nuclear activities. Despite previously hinting at potential negotiations, Trump's recent actions signal a firmer stance. In addition to the Iran sanctions, Trump also signed executive orders withdrawing the US from the UN Human Rights Council and cutting funding to UNRWA.