US readies 'unprecedented' Iran sanctions; Tehran warns allies will be 'enemies'

The United States is poised to unveil a new wave of economic sanctions against Iran on August 24, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant vowing to impose "the most powerful sanctions in history" aimed at collapsing the Iranian regime. President Donald Trump announced on social media that the US would engage in an "unprecedented economic war" against Iran, warning that third countries providing financial support to Tehran would face "enormous economic consequences."

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We warn the neighboring countries not to participate in the economic war with the United States. Otherwise, any country will be considered an enemy.

In response, Iran has issued a stern warning, with Supreme National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei stating that any nation participating in the US economic war would be considered an enemy. "We do not seek to expand the war, but if neighboring countries join the US economic war, we will infringe upon their interests," Rezaei declared, adding that "not a drop of oil will pass through the Strait of Hormuz, and other oil export routes will also be targeted."

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We do not seek to expand the war, but if neighboring countries join the US economic war, we will infringe upon their interests.

Amidst the escalating tensions, some Iranian factions are calling for an end to the ongoing conflict. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani suggested it would be better to end the war now while Iran possesses strength and dignity, claiming the world recognizes Iran's victory and criticizing the US for attacking schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf labeled the US economic pressure as "unjust sanctions" and proposed that Iran and Iraq use their national currencies in trade to reduce dollar dependency.

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Not a drop of oil will pass through the Strait of Hormuz, and other oil export routes will also be targeted.

President Trump has repeatedly asserted his claim over the Strait of Hormuz, calling it "US territory." He has stated, "Iran desperately wants a deal, but we don't even know if we want a deal," and reiterated his intention to declare the strait as US territory after defeating Iran. He previously posted a map on Truth Social depicting the area as "new US territory."

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It is better to end the war now while we have strength and dignity.