Iran has condemned the recent US sanctions as “economic terrorism,” accusing the US of undermining international law and relationships between countries. The sanctions target individuals and entities involved with Iranian oil and missile-related activities. This development comes as Iran prepares for upcoming negotiations over its nuclear program, with the US maintaining pressure on Tehran.
Iranian officials are once again decrying the latest round of US sanctions, characterizing them as acts of “economic terrorism.” Esmaeil Baghaei, the spokesman for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, articulated these sentiments following the recent sanctions imposed on several individuals and entities connected to Tehran. He asserted that these measures reflect America’s persistent disregard for international law and its intention to undermine relationships among developing nations.
The sanctions, announced by the US Treasury and State Departments, target six individuals and 13 entities suspected of assisting in the sale of Iranian petroleum, petrochemicals, and ingredients for ballistic missile production, according to reports from Xinhua news agency. Baghaei described these actions as evidence of the US government’s contradictory stance on diplomacy, stating they reveal a lack of sincere commitment to peaceful negotiations.
Moreover, the US indicated its intentions to sanction five companies outside of Iran involved in selling Iranian oil. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked, “So long as Iran attempts to generate oil and petrochemical revenues to fund its destabilizing activities… the United States will take steps to hold both Iran and all its partners engaged in sanctions evasion accountable.”
These sanctions were announced in conjunction with an upcoming round of negotiations set for Saturday in Rome, where Iran is anticipated to ask for sanctions relief in exchange for limiting its nuclear program. Since taking office in January, President Donald Trump has resumed a strategy of “maximum pressure” against Tehran, similar to his previous term, while also calling for dialogue.
In a significant development earlier this year, Trump reached out directly to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei with a letter urging diplomatic discussions. Khamenei, who wields considerable influence over Iran’s policies, reportedly received a warning of potential military action should Iran decline to engage in talks.
Additionally, Trump’s administration previously withdrew the United States from the crucial 2015 nuclear deal, opting to reimpose heavy sanctions on Iran, which subsequently caused Tehran to roll back its own commitments under the agreement. This escalation of tension has prompted a rescheduling of the fourth round of indirect talks facilitated by Oman, originally slated for this weekend.
In summary, Iran’s condemnation of the recent US sanctions underscores the ongoing friction between the two nations. As Tehran prepares to engage in negotiations, the US insists on holding Iran accountable for its actions in the region, emphasizing its foreign policy rooted in maximum pressure. This complex situation remains fluid as both sides navigate diplomatic channels amid escalating tensions and differing priorities.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
