People in Iran are bracing for a new round of U.S. sanctions aimed at further isolating the country and increasing pressure on its battered economy. Washington also warned nations to cut financial ties with Tehran or face retaliation.

Prices for food and other items are soaring, and there is a history of unrest, so any increase is being considered.

Tehran may count on links with China and others to weather the storm, but average Iranian people will bear the brunt.