“I think... It’s not like the U.S. sees this as a pressing political matter, it just can’t seem to be backing down to these hostage tactics.” said Marcus Chenevix, an analyst at TS Lombard.
One man’s opinion, who is focused on markets.
Meanwhile, in the region, a once in a generation struggle is coming to a head against the most anti-American regime on Earth, the source of the greatest threat to our allies in the region - Iran.
These “warning shot” sanctions were placed on Turkey, just days before the Iran sanctions went into effect. I don’t think its a coincidence. Turkey shares a border with Iran, has engaged in sanctions busting smuggling with Iran before, and is one of three countries with the means to significantly help bust sanctions (along with China and Pakistan). The Saudis pretty much have Pakistan on a leash, so President Trump needs to wave a big enough stick to deter Turkey and China (and the EU, which is a different story).