Tehran: Iran has warned that it is prepared to respond after the United States expanded economic sanctions and threatened countries continuing to trade with Tehran.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced new measures on August 24, targeting 60 individuals, entities and vessels linked to Iran. Washington also warned that countries maintaining economic ties with Tehran could face restrictions on access to the US dollar-based financial system.
Iran says it is ready
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf dismissed the impact of the US pressure, saying Tehran’s trading partners were not prepared to accept Washington’s demands.
Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh said Iran was “fully prepared” for the sanctions and warned that Tehran had its own economic and strategic tools to respond. Iranian officials have also threatened possible military action and further reductions in oil exports if pressure escalates.
Strait of Hormuz remains a concern
The growing confrontation has raised fresh concerns over regional security and global energy supplies. Iranian officials have warned that US or allied action against Iranian infrastructure could trigger attacks on American interests and energy chokepoints.
The Strait of Hormuz remains particularly important because disruption there could affect the movement of oil and gas from the Gulf. Despite the heightened tensions, oil prices fell by more than $2 a barrel on August 24 as markets assessed the immediate impact of the latest measures.
Pressure grows on Tehran
Washington’s latest strategy seeks to intensify economic pressure while leaving room for other countries and companies to sever their links with Iran.
The move comes as the wider US-Iran conflict approaches six months, with military tensions continuing and diplomatic efforts struggling to achieve a lasting settlement.