Iran condemns fresh US sanctions as “economic terrorism,” emphasizes the US acts contradict its diplomatic efforts. The sanctions target individuals and companies linked to Iranian oil trading and military support, coinciding with impending nuclear talks in Rome.
Tehran has recently expressed its discontent regarding the latest sanctions imposed by the United States, described as a clear demonstration of what Iranian officials term “economic terrorism.” Esmaeil Baghaei, the spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, voiced strong objections to the sanctions placed on several individuals and entities associated with Tehran. On Thursday, he articulated that the US actions indicate a systematic disregard for the rights and interests of other nations, alongside efforts to destabilize congenial relations among developing countries.
Baghaei pointed out that these sanctions, levied in recent days, exemplify a contradictory and insincere approach by US policymakers towards diplomacy. Specifically, he criticized the US for its ongoing insistence on law-breaking frameworks that undermine international law. His remarks followed reports of sanctions imposed by both the US Treasury and State Departments on six individuals and thirteen entities linked to Iran for their roles in trading oil and petrochemicals. These sanctions purportedly relate to procurement of materials intended for the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, according to information from the Xinhua news agency.
Furthermore, the US has targeted five additional companies operating outside of Iran involved in the sale of Iranian oil. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that as long as Iran continues to generate revenue from oil and petrochemical sales for what he termed “destabilizing activities,” the US will pursue accountability for all parties engaged in sanctions evasion.
This round of sanctions was introduced just before the scheduled fourth round of discussions between Iran and the US, set for Saturday in Rome. Tehran aims to negotiate relief from sanctions in exchange for limitations on its nuclear program. Since taking office in January, President Donald Trump has reinstated a stringent campaign dubbed “maximum pressure,” reminiscent of his earlier term. He has simultaneously signaled a willingness to engage in diplomatic talks.
In previous developments, Trump reached out to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in March, emphasizing the need for dialogue while cautioning of potential military measures should Iran decline the proposal. Historically, during his initial term, Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement and reimplemented extensive sanctions, leading Iran to retract some of its commitments.
In summary, Iran’s Foreign Ministry strongly criticized the recent US sanctions, labeling them as economic terrorism. These sanctions aim at individuals and entities allegedly tied to Iranian oil and arms dealings. The situation reflects ongoing tensions as Iran seeks relief from sanctions in the context of nuclear discussions. Furthermore, the sanctions represent the US’s strategy of imposing maximum pressure on Iran, showcasing conflicting diplomatic narratives amid high-stakes negotiations.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
