• President Trump signals willingness to remove sanctions if Iran returns to negotiations
  • New US and UN sanctions target Iran's energy exports and nuclear activities
  • Iran increases oil exports to record levels ahead of expected enforcement crackdown

President Donald Trump stated he would "love to remove sanctions" on Iran if the Iranian government is ready to negotiate, according to people familiar with the administration's position. The comments come even as the United States has dramatically escalated economic pressure on Tehran in recent weeks.

The Trump administration, in parallel with UN Security Council actions, has imposed several new rounds of US sanctions targeting over 50 individuals, companies, and vessels—including actors in India, China, and the UAE—for facilitating Iran's oil and LPG exports. These measures aim to dismantle major elements of Iran's energy export infrastructure and cut off funding for Iran's regional proxies and nuclear program.

Efforts to isolate Iran from the global financial system have intensified following the UN Security Council's decision to reimpose broad sanctions on Iran, restoring embargoes on arms, drones, and missiles and restricting uranium enrichment. The move came after a US- and EU-led veto of continued sanction relief.

In reaction to the mounting pressure, Iran has increased its oil exports, with September 2025 marking the highest daily average of the year, according to shipping data reviewed. This appears to be a strategic move to secure revenue before enforcement measures fully take effect.

The US demands a full dismantlement of Iran's nuclear weapons program for any sanctions relief, while Iran currently opposes direct negotiations. The impasse reflects continued distrust and divergent objectives between the two nations, according to diplomatic sources.

Global oil markets may experience volatility depending on the effectiveness of sanctions enforcement, though Iran has previously circumvented restrictions through shadow fleets and third-party trading. The targeting of entities in China, India, and the UAE puts additional pressure on those economies and global ports involved in Iranian exports.

The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the apparent contradiction between Trump's offer and the recent sanction expansions. Administration officials speaking on background noted that the president's position has been consistent—sanctions relief remains available if Iran demonstrates willingness to negotiate in good faith.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the timing of certain sanction implementations. The UN Security Council sanctions were reimposed in late September, with additional US measures following in early October.