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Up First from NPR

New Economic Pressure On Iran, Iran Warns Neighbors, Tariff War With Canada

August 24, 2026·13m

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is expected to unveil new economic pressure measures on Iran today as President Trump pushes an “Economic D-Day” aimed at cutting off any country that still provides Tehran a lifeline. Iran is vowing to neutralize the United States' economic war and warning neighbors not to get involved, cautioning it could stop oil from leaving the region altogether. Trade tensions with Canada boiled over this weekend after the U.S. imposed a new 50% tariff when talks broke down, prompting Ottawa to threaten retaliation. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one.