TEHRAN: Iran has sharply criticized the United States’ new sanctions, labeling them "economic terrorism" just days ahead of fresh nuclear negotiations between the two countries.
On Wednesday, the U.S. announced sanctions targeting seven companies involved in the sale of Iranian oil. Among these, four are located in the United Arab Emirates, and one is based in Turkey.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked, "As long as Iran continues to generate oil and petrochemical revenue to support its destabilizing activities and terrorism, the United States will hold Iran and those helping evade sanctions accountable."
These sanctions come just before the fourth round of U.S.-Iran talks scheduled for this Saturday in Rome, where Iran is aiming for relief from sanctions in exchange for limits on its nuclear program.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baqaei, stated that the sanctions are an attempt by the U.S. to undermine friendly relations between developing nations through economic pressure. He criticized American leaders for their contradictory actions and lack of genuine commitment to diplomacy.
Since taking office in January, President Donald Trump has revived a "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, similar to his first term, while also calling for dialogue. In March, he sent a letter to Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urging discussions and cautioning about potential military responses if Iran does not cooperate.
During his initial term, Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran and reinstated severe sanctions, leading Tehran to reduce its commitments under the deal.
