Iran has condemned fresh U.S. sanctions, labeling them as economic terrorism. The sanctions target individuals and entities linked to Iran’s oil and missile programs and come just ahead of talks in Rome aimed at negotiating nuclear concessions. U.S. officials assert they will hold Iran accountable for destabilizing activities. The situation raises further complications for diplomacy between the two nations.
In recent days, Iran has criticized new sanctions imposed by the U.S., labeling them as “economic terrorism.” Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei expressed this sentiment in a statement, specifically noting that these measures target individuals and entities inside Iran and beyond who supposedly cooperate with Tehran in various areas. Baghaei argues that these sanctions highlight the U.S.’s persistent law-breaking and attempts to undermine relations among developing nations.
Baghaei emphasized that the recent actions are persuasive evidence of the contradictions in U.S. policy and a lack of genuine intent in pursuing diplomatic solutions. There’s a clear frustration boiling over from Tehran, reacting to sanctions implemented by the U.S. Treasury and State Departments on six individuals and 13 entities in Iran and other countries. These individuals were allegedly involved in trading Iranian petroleum and procuring materials essential for ballistic missiles on behalf of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Additionally, the U.S. announced sanctions targeting five companies based outside Iran that are implicated in the sale of Iranian oil. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the U.S. will hold Iran and its partners accountable while noting the country’s oil and petrochemical revenue fueled its destabilizing activities and support of terrorism.
This escalation in sanctions comes just before a fourth round of Iran-U.S. negotiations scheduled for Saturday in Rome. Iran is looking for sanction relief in exchange for limitations on its nuclear program. Notably, U.S. President Donald Trump, who took office in January, has reiterated his commitment to a strategy of maximum pressure against Iran, reminiscent of his previous term. He has both called for diplomatic discussions while sending a letter to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, signaling a stern warning regarding military action should negotiations fail.
In a significant shift, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers and reinstated strict sanctions, compelling Iran to scale back its nuclear commitments in retaliation. However, reports indicate that the planned Omani-mediated talks have faced delays, casting doubt on the diplomatic progress before Saturday’s meetings in Rome. The tensions continue to shape U.S.-Iran relations as both sides grapple with the impacts of sanctions and potential negotiations.
In summary, Iran has condemned the U.S.’s latest sanctions as a form of economic terrorism, indicating deep frustrations over ongoing tensions. As new sanctions are aimed at individuals and companies linked to Iran’s oil and missile programs, this situation complicates upcoming diplomatic talks about nuclear negotiations. With the U.S. reaffirming its tough stance against Tehran, the prospects for fruitful dialogue remain uncertain amid escalating hostilities.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
