Iran's foreign minister rejected warnings of new American sanctions, characterizing the threat as a sign of US desperation while maintaining Tehran's defiance despite months of military pressure and economic sanctions.
Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed impending US sanctions announced for Monday as ineffective, describing them as part of repetitive failed strategies. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has threatened "the toughest sanctions in history" against Iran, but Araghchi countered that such measures demonstrate Washington's desperation after military operations have not achieved their objectives. He called on the US to engage respectfully with Tehran to reach solutions based on "justice and honour."
Tensions have escalated significantly following the US and Israeli military operations that began in February. Iran's economy faces mounting pressure from existing international sanctions, while its military infrastructure has suffered damage. However, Tehran has responded by effectively blockading the Strait of Hormuz, preventing unauthorised oil tankers from transiting the vital shipping route and pushing up global oil prices. Iranian officials maintain this demonstrates their continued capability despite military setbacks.
President Donald Trump has warned countries against providing support to Iran, specifically targeting China, which receives over 80 percent of Iran's shipped oil according to analytics data. China has instead urged diplomatic solutions. Meanwhile, Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir was scheduled to visit Tehran on Monday, with Pakistani sources indicating he would address recent developments including the US sanctions threat.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for ending the conflict "when we are powerful and have dignity," according to state media, while parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf claimed neighbouring countries had proposed new regional security and economic arrangements. Trump administration objectives including dismantling Iran's nuclear programme remain unachieved, with UN inspectors barred from Iranian nuclear facilities.
