Overview
- President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on any country doing business with Iran, stating it takes effect immediately in a Truth Social post.
- Shashi Tharoor warns that layered U.S. measures—an initial 25%, a further 25% tied to Russia, and a new 25% for Iran—could cumulatively reach 75%.
- He argues most labour‑intensive Indian exports such as gems, jewellery, seafood, shrimp and leather would become unviable, while pharmaceuticals may still find a market.
- Tharoor urges New Delhi and Washington to finalize a bilateral trade pact in the first quarter of 2026 and says the new U.S. ambassador could help broker relief.
- He notes India already faces steeper tariffs than regional competitors at 15–19% and cites ongoing contacts between S. Jaishankar and U.S. officials, even as the government has suggested limited immediate impact.