Iran dismisses 'desperate' US sanctions threat as doomed to fail

Iran's foreign minister has dismissed the United States' threat of new sanctions as a desperate act that will ultimately fail to defeat Tehran. The comments came as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent prepared to announce what he called "the toughest sanctions in history" against Iran.

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The fact that they (US leaders) have moved on from military operations ... to bring up the same old plans shows that they are desperate.

Iran's economy is already under severe pressure from existing international sanctions, which have impacted its infrastructure. Despite these challenges and ongoing regional conflicts, Tehran has maintained a defiant stance. The country has significantly disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport, leading to increased global oil prices.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated in a video message that the US resorting to "the same old plans" indicates desperation. He called for respectful dialogue, suggesting that a "solution based on justice and honour" could be found. Araghchi expressed confidence that all US actions, including blockades and military moves, have failed and that the new sanctions will also be ineffective.

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We have never been afraid. All of their actions - whether blockades or other military moves they have made - have failed, and this new issue of theirs will fail as well.

US President Donald Trump has warned countries against providing any support to Iran. Washington has urged China, a major buyer of Iranian oil, to cooperate. Meanwhile, Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, is scheduled to visit Tehran to discuss regional peace and security, potentially including the new sanctions threat. Trump has commented on the conflict, suggesting Iran is not yet ready to make the "right deal."

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They would love to make a deal, but they're not ready to make the right deal, in my opinion.