India, Aug. 20 -- The confrontation between the United States and Iran is entering a new economic phase, with Washington seeking to squeeze Tehran not only through direct sanctions but also by putting pressure on countries that continue trading with Iran. President Donald Trump has warned that the government providing any form of economic support to Tehran could face serious consequences, while the Iranian government has responded by accusing Washington of attacking the rights and sovereignty of its people.

The latest escalation comes after months of military confrontation and stalled efforts to bring the two sides back to negotiations. The US now appears to be shifting greater attention toward Iran's oil revenues, financial networks and...