Tehran, Iran — The recent expansion of U.S. sanctions targeting Iran’s oil industry has been met with strong condemnation from the Iranian government. In a statement released by foreign ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei, Iran defended its actions and denounced the sanctions as “illegal and unjustified.”
The sanctions were imposed in response to Iran’s missile attack on Israel earlier this month. The U.S. Treasury Department designated 10 companies and 17 vessels involved in the sale of Iranian oil as “blocked property,” while the State Department placed sanctions on six additional firms and six ships for engaging in transactions with Iran’s oil industry.
Baghaei asserted that Iran’s attack on Israel was legal and within its rights to defend its sovereignty and national interests. He also criticized the U.S. policy of “maximum pressure,” stating that it has had no impact on Iran’s determination to protect its citizens and territory from foreign aggression.
The Iranian spokesperson also expressed concern that these sanctions would only embolden Israel to continue its aggression against innocent civilians and threaten the peace and unity of the region and the world.
The timing of these sanctions, coming on the heels of Iran’s missile attack, has raised speculation about a potential connection between the two events. This speculation has been further fueled by U.S. President Joe Biden’s warning to Israel against targeting Iran’s oil infrastructure.
Iran, one of the world’s top 10 oil producers, has been a target of U.S. sanctions for years. These sanctions have severely impacted the country’s economy and its ability to sell its valuable oil resources on the global market. Despite this, Iran remains steadfast in its determination to defend its sovereignty and national interests.
In response to the new sanctions, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that any attack on Iran’s infrastructure would result in an even stronger response. This serves as a clear message that Iran will not be intimidated or coerced into submission by the U.S. or any other country.
The renewed tensions between Iran and the U.S. have also had a direct impact on the global oil market. Oil prices have reached their highest levels since August, with investors closely watching for Israel’s promised response to the missile attack.
It is worth noting that the U.S. has been urging Israel to exercise restraint and not escalate the situation. This is a positive step towards de-escalation and finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing tensions between the two countries.
In conclusion, Iran stands firm in its stance against the unjustified and illegal expansion of U.S. sanctions on its oil industry. The country remains committed to defending its sovereignty and national interests, and will not be deterred by threats or pressure. It is our hope that the international community will recognize the need for peaceful dialogue and finding a mutually beneficial solution to these tensions. Only then can true peace and stability be achieved in the region.
