US, Israel plan to pressure Iran on oil sales to China: Report
Times of India
by TOI BUSINESS DESKFebruary 15, 2026
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US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met at the White House to discuss plans to reduce Iran's oil exports to China, which currently account for over 80% of Iran's oil sales. The two leaders agreed to intensify pressure on Iran, particularly targeting its oil revenue, as part of efforts to curb Tehran's influence in the region. This move comes amid ongoing nuclear talks between US and Iranian officials facilitated by Oman. A senior US official confirmed that the goal is to "go full force" with maximum economic and diplomatic pressure against Iran, potentially hurting its financial stability.
The initiative aligns with broader US strategy to isolate Iran on multiple fronts. The United States has also positioned a naval fleet in the Middle East, signaling readiness for potential extended military operations against Iran. This includes deploying an additional aircraft carrier to the region, which could heighten tensions further. Meanwhile, China's role as a key buyer of Iranian oil remains under scrutiny, though no official response from Beijing regarding US plans has been forthcoming during the Lunar New Year holiday.
Separately, Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last shah, called on Trump to support the Iranian people in ending the Islamic Republic. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Pahlavi emphasized that the Iranian public is seeking an end to the regime rather than mere reforms. His appeal comes after Trump hinted at welcoming a potential change in Iran's government, describing it as "the best thing that could happen." This sentiment was echoed by the deployment of a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, underscoring the administration
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/15/2026