Iran vows to retaliate after U.S. widens sanctions

Iran has pledged to retaliate against the United States for its expanded economic sanctions, which Washington asserts will sever the nation's economic lifeline. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent unveiled the new measures, cautioning that countries continuing to trade with Iran risk exclusion from the dollar-based financial system.

While Bessent declined to name specific countries or the timeline for penalties, he indicated that targeted nations would be given time to comply with the directive. The Treasury Department did announce sanctions on 60 individuals, entities, and vessels, notably excluding Chinese financial institutions suspected of facilitating Iran's oil trade. Prior to this announcement, Iran had threatened military responses and further reductions in oil exports in response to potential U.S. economic actions.

Iran's Economy Minister, Ali Madanizadeh, declared that the country is "fully prepared for the U.S. sanctions." He stated, "Naturally, the enemies intend to launch an economic terrorist attack on us, but we also have our own tools and know how to play the game. Our defense is no longer so defensive; the enemies should wait for an attack." Madanizadeh also claimed that neither China nor Russia had "accepted" the U.S. measures and predicted broader international resistance.

Brigadier General Hossein Mohebbi of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reportedly vowed significant blows to U.S. vital interests and energy chokepoints if Iran's infrastructure faces threats. The U.S. administration, struggling with an ongoing conflict that has raised energy prices, appears to be relying on increased economic pressure, despite decades of sanctions that have impacted Iran's economy without deterring its leadership. The conflict shows no immediate signs of a diplomatic resolution, while the U.S. seeks to curb Iranian attacks on shipping in the Gulf and Red Sea.

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We are fully prepared for the U.S. sanctions. Naturally, the enemies intend to launch an economic terrorist attack on us, but we also have our own tools and know how to play the game. Our defense is no longer so defensive; the enemies should wait for an attack.