In a video posted to Telegram, Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araqchi, rebuked the United States’ latest threat of severe economic sanctions. He described the move as a “desperate” attempt by Washington to pressure Tehran, saying the United States has shifted from military actions to repeating old diplomatic tactics.
U.S. sanctions threat
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is scheduled to hold a press conference on Monday, during which he is expected to announce what he called the “toughest sanctions in history” against Iran. The sanctions would target Iran’s oil exports, financial institutions, and other sectors of its economy.
Iran’s response
Araqchi asserted that Iran has never been afraid of U.S. pressure, noting that previous blockades and military moves have failed. He called for Washington to engage Iran “respectfully” and to seek a solution grounded in “justice and honour.” He added that the new sanctions would likewise fail.
Impact on the global oil market
Iran has intensified its control of the Strait of Hormuz, limiting the passage of unauthorized oil tankers. The effective blockade has contributed to higher global oil prices, underscoring the strategic importance of the waterway for worldwide energy supplies.
Regional diplomatic activity
Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, is slated to visit Tehran on Monday as part of broader efforts to restore regional peace and security. A Pakistani government source said Munir will discuss recent developments, including the U.S. sanctions threat.
U.S. statements
Former President Donald Trump warned that any country providing a “lifeline” to Iran could face economic repercussions. He also said the United States is watching the conflict closely and suggested that a deal could be possible, but only if Iran makes the “right” concessions.
Iranian leadership on diplomacy
President Masoud Pezeshkian called for a diplomatic solution, stating that ending the war while Iran remains strong would allow the nation to claim victory and highlight what he described as U.S. attacks on Iranian schools, hospitals, and infrastructure.
Iranian Parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf reported receiving numerous messages from neighboring countries about new regional security arrangements and economic cooperation, though he did not specify which nations were involved. He accused the United States of jeopardizing regional allies’ security for the benefit of Israel and advocated for a “homegrown” regional order.
Broader context
The conflict, which began after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28, has placed Iran’s economy under significant strain. International sanctions, repeated airstrikes, and damage to Iran’s navy and air force have weakened the country’s financial and military capabilities. Nevertheless, Tehran retains missile and drone capacities that allow it to disrupt oil tanker traffic and threaten regional rivals.
U.S. officials continue to press allies, including China, to cooperate with Washington on sanction enforcement. China, which purchases more than 80% of Iran’s shipped oil according to 2025 analytics from Kpler, has called for diplomatic solutions.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
