White House halts new sanctions on Iran: Wall Street Journal

The White House suspended new Iran sanctions amid internal policy changes, reflecting broader shifts in U.S. foreign relations and strategy.

The White House has issued a directive to suspend the implementation of new sanctions on Iran, citing ambiguity within the current decision-making framework. According to the Office of the White House Press Secretary, the move reflects an internal reassessment of strategic priorities under the Biden administration.

The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday, June 1, that the order was circulated last week by White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt to key agencies, including the National Security Council, the Department of the Treasury, and the State Department.

Sources close to the White House say that the Trump-era “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran has now effectively been put on hold. The strategy, aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions and regional influence, appears to be undergoing reevaluation.

According to Wall Street Journal sources, the decision is not limited to Middle East policy but is also tied to broader U.S. interests, including diplomatic relations with China, Europe, India, and Southeast Asia. Analysts suggest this may signal a strategic shift toward multilateralism and global stability.

The report also highlights administrative disarray within the National Security Council, particularly following the suspension of over 100 staff members. This has led to confusion over how foreign policy responsibilities are being shared between the State Department and the Office of the Vice President.

In response to mounting speculation, Deputy White House Press Secretary Anna Kelly stated, “Any new sanctions decisions will be announced by the White House or the appropriate government agencies.” Her remarks underscore the administration’s cautious approach during a period of internal restructuring.

Officials from the Trump administration have repeatedly defended the maximum pressure strategy as a deterrent against Iran’s nuclear activities. However, the Biden administration appears to be prioritizing diplomatic engagement and global alignment over unilateral enforcement.

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