Trump and Netanyahu agree to increase pressure on Iranian oil

(Barak Ravid – Axios) President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed during their meeting at the White House on Wednesday that the U.S. will increase the economic pressure on Iran, mostly when it comes to oil sales to China, according to two U.S. officials briefed on the issue. Why it matters: More than 80% of Iranian oil exports go to China. If China reduces its purchases of oil from Iran, the economic pressure on Iran would increase significantly. This could change Iran’s calculus and push it to make more concessions regarding its nuclear program. U.S. officials say the maximum pressure campaign will take place alongside the nuclear talks with Iran and the ongoing military build-up in the Middle East for possible strikes if diplomacy fails. – Trump and Netanyahu agree to increase pressure on Iranian oil