POLITICS

Trump Announces Tariffs While Keeping Military Options Open

PUBLISHED Jan 12, 2026, 5:24 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Center 82%

Right 18%

Sources: 11

Washington. President Donald Trump announced 25 percent tariff on any country doing business with Iran, effective immediately. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said diplomacy remains the president’s preferred approach while confirming he keeps military options, including airstrikes, on the table. Leavitt noted private messages from Iranian officials differ from public statements, prompting U.S. engagement. Trump said his administration is weighing strong options as protests in Iran continued, with reports of casualties. The tariff order did not specify sectors or implementation details. Authorities and markets are assessing implications for international trade and diplomacy. Based on 7 articles reviewed and research.

By Najma A. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Jan 12: White House press secretary emphasizes diplomacy as first option but refuses to rule out military measures.
Jan 12: President Trump says administration is weighing 'very strong options' regarding Iran.
Jan 12: Trump posts that countries doing business with Iran will face a 25 percent tariff, effective immediately.
Jan 13: Media report continued protests in Iran and cite casualty figures, while U.S. officials note differing private Iranian messages.
Jan 13: Markets and governments begin assessing trade, diplomatic, and security implications of the tariff and public statements.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 2
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 9
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 82%, Right 18%

Who Benefited

The U.S. government increased economic leverage by issuing a 25% tariff order, potentially protecting or advantaging certain domestic industries and giving the administration an additional tool of statecraft.

Who Impacted

Countries and companies trading with Iran, including exporters such as those in India, face higher tariffs, increased costs, and potential market disruptions resulting from the order.