Iranian officials warned over the weekend that the United States’ anticipated new round of economic sanctions could provoke “seismic” retaliation. Mohsen Rezaei, recently appointed head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, told state‑run media that any country joining Washington’s sanctions effort will be regarded as an enemy.
Hard‑line stance signals tougher posture
Rezaei, known as a hard‑liner, said Tehran could target additional oil‑shipping routes out of the region if the sanctions proceed. He suggested that the Strait of Hormuz, already experiencing severely reduced traffic, might face further threats.
U.S. plans for a new sanctions wave
The Trump administration is preparing to unveil a package of restrictions dubbed “economic D‑Day,” which officials say could replace direct military action. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated the measures may be announced as early as Monday.
Impact on Iran’s oil economy
Iran’s oil output has fallen dramatically, now barely covering domestic needs, according to oil‑tracking firm Tanker Trackers. President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that the country’s capital and money are extremely sensitive to risk and that steps must be taken to remove that risk.
Potential escalation scenarios
If Iran chooses a military response, it could again target U.S. bases in the region, as past attacks have resulted in American casualties and equipment loss. Tehran might also work with proxy groups, such as the Yemen‑based Houthi rebels, to further disrupt oil‑shipping lanes or strike energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states.
Both sides appear poised for a heightened confrontation as the United States moves forward with its sanctions strategy.
Original reporting: WMAL (Washington DC) — read the source article.
