Iran has issued a stark warning to countries considering joining the United States’ campaign of economic pressure against Tehran, saying nations that participate in the “economic war” will be considered enemies. The warning was issued by Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.

Rezaei specifically warned neighbouring countries against cooperating with Washington’s efforts to isolate the Iranian economy. He said Iran could retaliate against countries that assist the U.S. campaign and target their interests.

The warning comes after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a major new economic campaign against Iran, with Washington preparing additional sanctions aimed at increasing pressure on Tehran.

Iran: Nations Joining the Economic War Will Be Considered Enemies

Iran has warned neighbouring countries against joining what Tehran describes as a US economic war, threatening action against countries that participate in Washington's campaign to isolate the Iranian economy.

Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei reportedly issued the warning on state television, saying countries that impose economic restrictions on Iran would be considered enemies.

He warned that Tehran would first seek negotiations with such countries and urge them to distance themselves from Washington. However, he said Iran could target the interests of countries that refuse to change course.

Rezaei also said Iran had so far focused its attacks on US military bases rather than American economic interests. But he warned that further US sanctions could lead Iran to target American oil and economic companies in the region and elsewhere.

US President Donald Trump has meanwhile threatened severe economic consequences for countries providing what he described as a lifeline to Iran.

Iran Warns US Allies Over Sanctions As Hormuz Tensions And Regional Crisis Escalate

The United States has reimposed its naval blockade on Iranian ports following the collapse of peace talks, but Iran's oil exports continue through a secretive network known as the "shadow fleet."

This network consists of hundreds of aging oil tankers that operate outside traditional shipping systems, helping Tehran continue its energy trade despite years of U.S. sanctions. These vessels often disable tracking systems, change identities, use foreign registrations, and conduct ship-to-ship oil transfers to hide their origins.

While Washington's sanctions target companies, banks, and shipping firms involved in Iranian crude trade, Iran has built a parallel export system that keeps its oil flowing to international buyers, especially China.

Iran's Ships Hide Identities to Evade U.S. Sanctions & Tracking | The West Asia Post 

Iran reportedly shipped nearly 70 million barrels of crude oil worth an estimated $5-6 billion during a brief pause in US restrictions, building a financial cushion before Washington reinstated its blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. The shipments, carried out between mid-June and mid-July, are expected to generate billions in revenue for Tehran in the coming months, with much of the crude ultimately destined for China.According to a Wall Street Journal report, around 20 Iranian oil tankers began arriving off Malaysia’s eastern coast in late June after the United States temporarily lifted restrictions on Iranian shipping. Independent estimates from advocacy group United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) and oil market analysts cited by the newspaper suggest Tehran exported roughly 70 million barrels during the one-month window. The US has since reimposed restrictions, once again limiting Iranian exports through the Strait of Hormuz.Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-targets-us-bases-in-bahrain-kuwait-and-jordan-as-conflict-in-middle-east-escalates-1784372546894"> Iran targets US bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan as conflict in Middle East escalates</a><h2>Oil shipped to China</h2>Analysts say Iran relied on its long-established sanctions-evasion network to move the oil. Tankers reportedly sailed to the Eastern Outer Port Limits, an area outside Malaysia’s territorial waters, where crude was transferred at sea to other vessels using large hoses. These receiving tankers then transport the oil to private Chinese refiners, often referred to as “teapot” refineries, which purchase Iranian crude at discounted prices.Several tankers, including the Diona, Hero II, Sonia 1 and Stream, reportedly reached the Malaysian transfer zone during the period. Experts believe the sudden increase in tanker traffic reflects Tehran’s effort to maximise exports before tighter US enforcement resumed.Watch | US-Iran war: Iranian media reports US attacks on Sirik port in Hormuz Strait<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iranian-media-reports-us-attacks-on-sirik-port-in-hormuz-strait-1784432514802/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iranian-media-reports-us-attacks-on-sirik-port-in-hormuz-strait-1784432514802/embed</a>Charlie Brown, a Singapore-based analyst with United Against Nuclear Iran, told the outlet that Iran acted quickly to build a significant export buffer once restrictions were eased. Jonathan Panikoff, Middle East expert at the Atlantic Council, said Iran's struggling economy makes oil revenue critical, adding that the government is likely to prioritise those earnings to support its strategic objectives amid renewed tensions with the United States.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran exported nearly 70 million barrels of oil worth $5-6 billion during a brief US sanctions pause, with much of the crude sent to China before Washington restored restrictions.

Iran reportedly shipped nearly 70 million barrels of crude oil worth an estimated $5-6 billion during a brief pause in US restrictions, building a financial cushion before Washington reinstated its blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. The shipments, carried out between mid-June and mid-July, are expected to generate billions in revenue for Tehran in the coming months, with much of the crude ultimately destined for China. According to a Wall Street Journal report, around 20 Iranian oil tankers began arriving off Malaysia’s eastern coast in late June after the United States temporarily lifted restrictions on Iranian shipping. Independent estimates from advocacy group United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) and oil market analysts cited by the newspaper suggest Tehran exported roughly 70 million barrels during the one-month window. The US has since reimposed restrictions, once again limiting Iranian exports through the Strait of Hormuz. Also read | Iran targets US bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan as conflict in Middle East escalates Oil shipped to China Analysts say Iran relied on its long-established sanctions-evasion network to move the oil. Tankers reportedly sailed to the Eastern Outer Port Limits, an area outside Malaysia’s territorial waters, where crude was transferred at sea to other vessels using large hoses. These receiving tankers then transport the oil to private Chinese refiners, often referred to as “teapot” refineries, which purchase Iranian crude at discounted prices. Several tankers, including the Diona, Hero II, Sonia 1 and Stream, reportedly reached the Malaysian transfer zone during the period. Experts believe the sudden increase in tanker traffic reflects Tehran’s effort to maximise exports before tighter US enforcement resumed. Watch | US-Iran war: Iranian media reports US attacks on Sirik port in Hormuz Strait https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iranian-media-reports-us-attacks-on-sirik-port-in-hormuz-strait-1784432514802/embed Charlie Brown, a Singapore-based analyst with United Against Nuclear Iran, told the outlet that Iran acted quickly to build a significant export buffer once restrictions were eased. Jonathan Panikoff, Middle East expert at the Atlantic Council, said Iran's struggling economy makes oil revenue critical, adding that the government is likely to prioritise those earnings to support its strategic objectives amid renewed tensions with the United States. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran exported nearly 70 million barrels of oil worth $5-6 billion during a brief US sanctions pause, with much of the crude sent to China before Washington restored restrictions.

Did Iran secretly ship 70 million barrels of oil to China? Report claims $6 billion crude exported before blockade restored

US President said he had been told the killings were easing and that there was no current plan for ‘executions’, adopting a wait-and-see stance after earlier threats of intervention, even as unrest remains a key concern for global oil markets.

'170 million barrels  stored at sea': Why Iran crisis matters more to oil markets than Venezuela

In 2025, Chinese refiners purchased on average about 1.38 million barrels per day of Iranian oil, which accounted for over 80 per cent of all Iranian crude exports tracked by Kpler analytics firm, reuters reported.

'1.38 million barrels per day!': Why is China the biggest buyer of Iranian oil?

The US Treasury Department on Tuesday imposed sweeping sanctions on more than 20 companies accused of operating within a vast international network that facilitates the shipment of Iranian crude oil worth billions of dollars to China.
The move is part of the Trump administration&rsquo;s ongoing &ldquo;maximum pressure&rdquo; campaign aimed at curbing Iran&rsquo;s oil revenues and deterring its military and nuclear ambitions.
The sanctioned network is allegedly tied to Iran&rsquo;s Armed Forces General Staff (AFGS) and its front company, Sepehr Energy Jahan Nama Pars Company, which the US says uses complex smuggling tactics involving front companies, fake documentation, and shadow fleet tankers to evade sanctions and funnel money into Iran&rsquo;s defence and missile programs, as well as support for terrorist groups across the region.
<h2 dir="ltr">Oil revenue linked to weapons development</h2>
According to the Treasury&rsquo;s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the sanctioned entities operate in multiple jurisdictions, including Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and the Seychelles. The network includes companies such as CCIC Singapore PTE Ltd, Huangdao Inspection and Certification Co. Ltd, and Qingdao Linkrich International Shipping Agency Co. Ltd, all of which played roles in masking the Iranian origin of crude shipments and facilitating their delivery to China&rsquo;s independent &ldquo;teapot&rdquo; refineries.
OFAC said revenue from these sales directly funds Iran&rsquo;s development of ballistic missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and nuclear proliferation activities, as well as attacks by the Houthi group on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and against US and Israeli interests.
Reuters reported that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said, &ldquo;This action underscores our continued focus on intensifying pressure on every aspect of Iran&rsquo;s oil trade&rdquo;.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We will continue targeting this primary source of revenue so long as the regime supports terrorism and proliferation of deadly weapons,&rdquo; he added.
<h2 dir="ltr">US warns of further measures amid fragile diplomacy</h2>
The sanctions come just days after the conclusion of a fourth round of nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington. While both countries have expressed a preference for a diplomatic resolution to the decades-long nuclear standoff, deep disagreements remain over key issues such as uranium enrichment levels.
US President Donald Trump, speaking at a US-Saudi investment conference, offered Iran &ldquo;a new and better path&rdquo; but warned that rejection would be met with even harsher measures, including driving Iranian oil exports &ldquo;to zero&rdquo;.
This latest round of sanctions also targets ships, shadow fleet tankers like BALU and ROC, and financial facilitators involved in laundering proceeds back to the AFGS. US officials have signalled that unless China&rsquo;s state-owned enterprises are brought into the sanctions regime, the measures may have limited long-term impact.
Meanwhile, Beijing has criticised the US for what it calls &ldquo;long-arm jurisdiction&rdquo; that undermines international trade, reaffirming its opposition to unilateral sanctions.

Business & Economy: The move is part of the Trump administration’s maximum pressure campaign aimed at curbing Iran’s oil revenues and deterring its military ambitions

The US Treasury Department on Tuesday imposed sweeping sanctions on more than 20 companies accused of operating within a vast international network that facilitates the shipment of Iranian crude oil worth billions of dollars to China. The move is part of the Trump administration’s ongoing “maximum pressure” campaign aimed at curbing Iran’s oil revenues and deterring its military and nuclear ambitions. The sanctioned network is allegedly tied to Iran’s Armed Forces General Staff (AFGS) and its front company, Sepehr Energy Jahan Nama Pars Company, which the US says uses complex smuggling tactics involving front companies, fake documentation, and shadow fleet tankers to evade sanctions and funnel money into Iran’s defence and missile programs, as well as support for terrorist groups across the region. Oil revenue linked to weapons development According to the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the sanctioned entities operate in multiple jurisdictions, including Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and the Seychelles. The network includes companies such as CCIC Singapore PTE Ltd, Huangdao Inspection and Certification Co. Ltd, and Qingdao Linkrich International Shipping Agency Co. Ltd, all of which played roles in masking the Iranian origin of crude shipments and facilitating their delivery to China’s independent “teapot” refineries. OFAC said revenue from these sales directly funds Iran’s development of ballistic missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and nuclear proliferation activities, as well as attacks by the Houthi group on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and against US and Israeli interests. Reuters reported that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said, “This action underscores our continued focus on intensifying pressure on every aspect of Iran’s oil trade”. “We will continue targeting this primary source of revenue so long as the regime supports terrorism and proliferation of deadly weapons,” he added. US warns of further measures amid fragile diplomacy The sanctions come just days after the conclusion of a fourth round of nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington. While both countries have expressed a preference for a diplomatic resolution to the decades-long nuclear standoff, deep disagreements remain over key issues such as uranium enrichment levels. US President Donald Trump, speaking at a US-Saudi investment conference, offered Iran “a new and better path” but warned that rejection would be met with even harsher measures, including driving Iranian oil exports “to zero”. This latest round of sanctions also targets ships, shadow fleet tankers like BALU and ROC, and financial facilitators involved in laundering proceeds back to the AFGS. US officials have signalled that unless China’s state-owned enterprises are brought into the sanctions regime, the measures may have limited long-term impact. Meanwhile, Beijing has criticised the US for what it calls “long-arm jurisdiction” that undermines international trade, reaffirming its opposition to unilateral sanctions.

US sanctions over 20 companies for facilitating Iranian oil shipments to China

Iran is ready to give 'special priority' to India in its oil exports if New Delhi shows willingness, the country's deputy foreign minister for political affairs said on Sunday, July 16.

"We as one of the biggest suppliers of oil in the world. We are ready to give special priority to India but India should show willingness," Ali Bagheri, Iranian deputy foreign minister for political affairs, told news agency ANI.

India has not imported crude oil from Iran for the last four years after the US did not continue with sanction waivers to India and several other countries.

<h2>Iran-India ties: Focus on Chabahar Port</h2>

The deputy foreign minister also said that any increase in the investment from the Indian side "could play an important role in advances, progress and the completion of Chabahar Port."

Located in the Sistan-Balochistan province on Iran's southern coast, the Chabahar port is being developed by India, Iran and Afghanistan to boost connectivity and trade ties.

Chabahar Port is also a part of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).

The INSTC is a 7,200-km-long multi-mode transport project for moving freight among India, Iran, Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia and Europe.

<h2>Iranian Rial-Indian Rupee framework in the works</h2>

Speaking on the use of local currencies for bilateral trade, the Iranian deputy foreign minister said that it falls on the Iranian agenda.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-iran-and-armenia-form-trilateral-grouping-to-deepen-ties-and-co-operation-584545">India, Iran and Armenia form trilateral grouping to deepen ties and co-operation</a>

"We have made good progress in this. Hopefully, this could take new momentum and we could see widespread use of our national currencies in this process," Ali Bagheri said.

Iran and India engage at various multilateral forums alongside their relevant bilateral engagements.

Also watch |&nbsp;Iran-flagged tanker seized over suspected crude oil transfer by Indonesia

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Earlier this month, India joined its Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) counterparts in welcoming Iran into the multilateral grouping founded by China.

Prior to that, in April 2023, in a move aimed at strengthening regional cooperation, India, Iran and Armenia formed a trilateral grouping. The first trilateral political consultation between the ministries of foreign affairs of the three countries was held in the Armenian capital, Yerevan on April 20, 2023.

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Iran is ready to give 'special priority' to India in its oil exports if New Delhi shows willingness, the country's deputy foreign minister for political affairs said on Sunday, July 16.

Iran is ready to give 'special priority' to India in its oil exports if New Delhi shows willingness, the country's deputy foreign minister for political affairs said on Sunday, July 16. "We as one of the biggest suppliers of oil in the world. We are ready to give special priority to India but India should show willingness," Ali Bagheri, Iranian deputy foreign minister for political affairs, told news agency ANI. India has not imported crude oil from Iran for the last four years after the US did not continue with sanction waivers to India and several other countries. Iran-India ties: Focus on Chabahar Port The deputy foreign minister also said that any increase in the investment from the Indian side "could play an important role in advances, progress and the completion of Chabahar Port." Located in the Sistan-Balochistan province on Iran's southern coast, the Chabahar port is being developed by India, Iran and Afghanistan to boost connectivity and trade ties. Chabahar Port is also a part of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). The INSTC is a 7,200-km-long multi-mode transport project for moving freight among India, Iran, Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia and Europe. Iranian Rial-Indian Rupee framework in the works Speaking on the use of local currencies for bilateral trade, the Iranian deputy foreign minister said that it falls on the Iranian agenda. Also read | India, Iran and Armenia form trilateral grouping to deepen ties and co-operation "We have made good progress in this. Hopefully, this could take new momentum and we could see widespread use of our national currencies in this process," Ali Bagheri said. Iran and India engage at various multilateral forums alongside their relevant bilateral engagements. Also watch | Iran-flagged tanker seized over suspected crude oil transfer by Indonesia × Earlier this month, India joined its Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) counterparts in welcoming Iran into the multilateral grouping founded by China. Prior to that, in April 2023, in a move aimed at strengthening regional cooperation, India, Iran and Armenia formed a trilateral grouping. The first trilateral political consultation between the ministries of foreign affairs of the three countries was held in the Armenian capital, Yerevan on April 20, 2023. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iran pitches 'special priority' for India in oil exports with focus on cooperation over Chabahar Port

The United States on Tuesday said that it will raise pressure on China to stop buying crude oil from Iran. The statement comes in addition to the ongoing spree of sanctions that Washington has imposed on Tehran to control its nuclear activities.

"China is the main destination of illicit exports by Iran", Robert Malley, Biden administration's special envoy for Iran, told Bloomberg Television. Malley added that Washington will engage with Beijing in an "intensified" manner to ensure it does not continue oil imports from Iran.

Malley further admitted that the United States cannot enforce its anti-Iran sanctions perfectly.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-fresh-sanctions-on-export-of-iran-oil-521006">US imposes fresh sanctions on export of Iran oil</a>

"Can we enforce our sanctions perfectly? No. But we’ll do everything in our power to make sure they’re enforced," he said.&nbsp;

He further emphasised that the US is not alright with Iran increasing its oil exports.

"No, we’re not fine with it," Malley said of Iran’s increasing oil exports.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-simmer-between-the-us-and-iran-503285">Tensions simmer between the US and Iran</a>

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Iran ramped up its uranium enrichment program in the wake of choking sanctions from Washington in 2018. The United States under former president Donald Trump's administration had pulled out of an agreement aimed at containing Tehran's atomic program. It then tightened sanctions on export of Iranian petroleum products.

Meanwhile, Iran's export of its crude oil and refined products has increased in recent months. A report in Bloomberg said that much of the Iranian oil will be heading to China in disguise of coming from Malaysia. China is the world's biggest crude oil importer.

According to shipping analytics firm Vortexa Limited, Iran's oil exports went up to about 1.4 million barrels a day last month, the highest in over the last three years.

Robert Malley further admitted that Washington's talks with Iran on reviving the nuclear agreement from 2015 have largely broken down.

He said that the current focus of the US is to ensure that Tehran doesn't use force against protestors demonstrating for women's rights and to prevent its support for Russia in the wake of war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Our focus has shifted to Iran killing its own citizens and what we can do to counter that, and to Iran assisting in Russia’s killing of Ukrainian citizens and what we can do to deter and stop that," he said. "The nuclear deal has not been on our agenda."

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The United States on Tuesday said that it will raise pressure on China to stop buying crude oil from Iran. The statement comes in addition to the ongoing spree of sanctions that Washington has imposed on Tehran to control its nuclear activities.

The United States on Tuesday said that it will raise pressure on China to stop buying crude oil from Iran. The statement comes in addition to the ongoing spree of sanctions that Washington has imposed on Tehran to control its nuclear activities. "China is the main destination of illicit exports by Iran", Robert Malley, Biden administration's special envoy for Iran, told Bloomberg Television. Malley added that Washington will engage with Beijing in an "intensified" manner to ensure it does not continue oil imports from Iran. Malley further admitted that the United States cannot enforce its anti-Iran sanctions perfectly. ALSO READ | US imposes fresh sanctions on export of Iran oil "Can we enforce our sanctions perfectly? No. But we’ll do everything in our power to make sure they’re enforced," he said. He further emphasised that the US is not alright with Iran increasing its oil exports. "No, we’re not fine with it," Malley said of Iran’s increasing oil exports. ALSO WATCH | Tensions simmer between the US and Iran × Iran ramped up its uranium enrichment program in the wake of choking sanctions from Washington in 2018. The United States under former president Donald Trump's administration had pulled out of an agreement aimed at containing Tehran's atomic program. It then tightened sanctions on export of Iranian petroleum products. Meanwhile, Iran's export of its crude oil and refined products has increased in recent months. A report in Bloomberg said that much of the Iranian oil will be heading to China in disguise of coming from Malaysia. China is the world's biggest crude oil importer. According to shipping analytics firm Vortexa Limited, Iran's oil exports went up to about 1.4 million barrels a day last month, the highest in over the last three years. Robert Malley further admitted that Washington's talks with Iran on reviving the nuclear agreement from 2015 have largely broken down. He said that the current focus of the US is to ensure that Tehran doesn't use force against protestors demonstrating for women's rights and to prevent its support for Russia in the wake of war in Ukraine. "Our focus has shifted to Iran killing its own citizens and what we can do to counter that, and to Iran assisting in Russia’s killing of Ukrainian citizens and what we can do to deter and stop that," he said. "The nuclear deal has not been on our agenda." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US admits it cannot impose anti-Iran sanctions 'perfectly'

Iran Deputy Foreign Minister Bagheri Kani has said that his country is willing to export oil to India and sees "no impediment" in that. The minister is in Delhi for two days and held talks with External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Wednesday. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kani said, "We are ready to revive the same transactions that we have regarding the supply of energy sources, contribute to the energy security of India, to have an effective role in it." He emphasised the usage of national currencies, the Rupee-Rial, for trade between the two countries. He also spoke on the protests in his country pointing to Iran being a "free society" that is suffering because of western sanctions. He said, "Today, the Iranian economy, and infrastructure are impacted. These sanctions are illegal."He spoke on the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, and the Turkish strikes in Northern Syria among other issues.

Iran Deputy Foreign Minister Bagheri Kani speaks to WION

Iran Deputy Foreign Minister Bagheri Kani has said that his country is willing to export oil to India and sees "no impediment" in that. The minister is in Delhi for two&nbsp;days and held talks with External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Wednesday. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kani said, "We are ready to revive the same transactions that we have regarding the supply of energy sources, contribute to the energy security of India, to have an effective role in it."

He emphasised the usage of national currencies, the Rupee-Rial, for trade between the two&nbsp;countries. He also spoke on the protests in his country pointing to Iran being a "free society" that is suffering because of western sanctions. He said, "Today, the Iranian economy, and infrastructure are impacted. These sanctions are illegal."

He spoke on the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, and the Turkish strikes in Northern Syria among other issues.

WION: There are protests in Iran, if you can talk about that, how has the situation been

Bagheri Kani: The developments you are mentioning are a natural phenomenon in the countries that are governed by the principles of democracy. Based on our religious beliefs and the principles of our constitution, it is the right of the people to criticise, raise objections&nbsp;and religious mandates to object. People should not be indifferent towards the developments in the society. So, I would stress that criticism is a natural phenomenon in a vibrant society like Iran. I would like to stress that women play a very pivotal and critical role in Iranian society. They have played an important role in different spheres of Iran's society, from scientific, social, economic, and political domains. We need to pay attention to different and special attention to what some western regimes are imposing in relation to developments in Iran. They consider themselves the defenders of human rights but during the past year they have been engaged in the biggest violation of human rights against the people of Iran, they have followed the policy of maximum pressure that was initiated by a madman, Trump. The European regimes have been implementers of those policies, following the massive sanctions against the Iranian people. They have created a lot of damage. Today the Iranian economy and infrastructure are impacted. These sanctions are illegal. Because of these sanctions we have seen that many people in Iran who are suffering from hemophilia, thalassemia, the children, innocent children have not been able to access the necessary pharmaceuticals&nbsp;and many of them have fallen prey to these sanctions. These sanctions are denying the basic human rights of the Iranian people which should be noted. So, you heard the name of Mahsa Amini and reflected in your reports but there are others who have fallen prey because necessary pharmaceuticals were denied to them, they were suffering from thalassemia, and they died. Many Iranian children have fallen prey to the consequences of sanctions followed by western regimes. The main reason the names are not heard in your media is that western media are intermediaries between us and independent nations and countries like India. So independent media, like media in India, should get news directly so that they can access real developments, and real stories of our country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lt-gen-asim-munir-named-pakistans-new-army-chief-536997">Lt Gen Asim Munir named Pakistan’s new army chief &nbsp;</a>

WION: We have seen people being killed, your soccer team did not sing the Iran national anthem, what would you say to that?

Bagheri Kani:&nbsp;The national anthem, which is customary, sometimes the soccer team members&nbsp;whisper, I don't think that is a sign of showing anything. This is customary, some whisper, and some don't whisper. This is one of the deceptions on part of western media, they are having own view of things.

WION: Protesters, women protesters don't want to wear the headscarf, what would you say about that, and does it go against your culture?

Bagheri Kani: Iran is a free society and people enjoy the freedom of expression. The viewpoints, women, men, and different age groups within the framework of Iranian laws, and constitution, are free to express views and perspectives based on rules and regulations.

WION: How do you see India's stance on the issue?

Bagheri Kani: The Indian government has its own independent perspective regarding the developments in Iran and other countries. That is natural for the India&nbsp;to adopt a position that is not in line with the interest of western regimes. In other areas, we have seen India adopting independent perspectives that are in line with the interest of the nation. For example, look at the position adopted by India&nbsp;in relation to sanctions on Russia that is not following the step of the western regime and that is emanating from a position that is rooted in the interest of the Indian nation and serving the interest of Indian nation, that is showing the smartness on the part of your government.

WION: How do you see India-Iran relations and any plans to resume oil trade, oil from Iran to India

Bagheri Kani:&nbsp;In regards to Iran, we see no impediment regarding exporting Iranian energy sources to India and we are ready to revive the same transactions that we have regard to the supply of energy sources, contributing to the energy security of India, to have an effective role in it.

WION: Are you looking at trading in local currencies, Rupee-Rial

Bagheri Kani: See, one of the important infrastructures that need to be strengthened in line with multilateralism in the world is to strengthen the financial and banking mechanism that is not based on the western banking mechanism. Transactions like in rupee, the rial. We are supporting the activation of financial and banking mechanisms, naturally to revive this mechanism, one that paves the way is the supply of energy sources from Iran to India.

WION: Any update on the JCPOA? You held talks with EAM on that. Has Iran increased its enrichment of uranium and use of advanced centrifuges at two nuclear sites?

Bagheri Kani: You pointed to talks with EAM Jaishankar on that, in that conversation we reviewed the latest development in our nuclear negotiations between Iran and other parties but regarding the enrichment activities that we are doing are in line with Iranian rights, also in line with international principles enshrined in NPT, based on the IAEA charter, and also safeguards agreements as regards to agreements and pacts. Regarding Iran's nuclear activities, we are following activities based on national interest, and the framework of international documents raised. All our activities are following international regulations and laws and are in line with the rights of the Iranian nation.

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WION: Your stand on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and how you see India's stance. Will it change global geopolitics?

Bagheri Kani: Iran has declared that it is against the war, and it is not throwing its weight behind any party. We are supporting political solution that is based on reasonable initiatives. What I would like to stress, the war in Ukraine is a conspiracy done by the US to undermine Russia and by extension Europe. You must pay attention to the policy and attitude of Trump in relation to Europe. Trump endeavored to undermine Europe. Trump's way was a hard attitude, but Biden is soft, but they are following the same objective. So I would like to stress how independent powers like India and Iran should follow, their frameworks are the same, especially under SCO to strengthen the international system that is based on justice, also in the interest of independent powers and against unilateralism. Not allow unilateralism to be strengthened because of the consequences of the conflict that is being waged in that part of the world. But I believe the final consequence of the war is the weakening of the US itself. Independent countries are the final winners of this conflict. So continued interaction between independent powers like Iran&nbsp;and India is necessary and a must.

WION: There have been strikes by Turkey in Northern Syria, your reactions to it..

Bagheri Kani: We have serious and effective cooperation and interaction with the legitimate government in Syria in the same way India&nbsp;has the same type of interaction with the legitimate government of Syria.

Sidhant Sibal: But how do you see the Turkish strikes

Bagheri Kani: We do not approve of any kind of intervention in the internal affairs of Syria, and we are engaged with other countries in the region under various formats like the Astana format. We are supporting the territorial integrity, interest of the Syrian people, and national interest based on international regulation.

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Iran Deputy Foreign Minister Bagheri Kani has said that his country is willing to export oil to India and sees "no impediment" in that. The minister is in Delhi for two days and held talks with External Affairs Minister Dr.

Iran Deputy Foreign Minister Bagheri Kani has said that his country is willing to export oil to India and sees "no impediment" in that. The minister is in Delhi for two days and held talks with External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Wednesday. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kani said, "We are ready to revive the same transactions that we have regarding the supply of energy sources, contribute to the energy security of India, to have an effective role in it." He emphasised the usage of national currencies, the Rupee-Rial, for trade between the two countries. He also spoke on the protests in his country pointing to Iran being a "free society" that is suffering because of western sanctions. He said, "Today, the Iranian economy, and infrastructure are impacted. These sanctions are illegal." He spoke on the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, and the Turkish strikes in Northern Syria among other issues. WION: There are protests in Iran, if you can talk about that, how has the situation been Bagheri Kani: The developments you are mentioning are a natural phenomenon in the countries that are governed by the principles of democracy. Based on our religious beliefs and the principles of our constitution, it is the right of the people to criticise, raise objections and religious mandates to object. People should not be indifferent towards the developments in the society. So, I would stress that criticism is a natural phenomenon in a vibrant society like Iran. I would like to stress that women play a very pivotal and critical role in Iranian society. They have played an important role in different spheres of Iran's society, from scientific, social, economic, and political domains. We need to pay attention to different and special attention to what some western regimes are imposing in relation to developments in Iran. They consider themselves the defenders of human rights but during the past year they have been engaged in the biggest violation of human rights against the people of Iran, they have followed the policy of maximum pressure that was initiated by a madman, Trump. The European regimes have been implementers of those policies, following the massive sanctions against the Iranian people. They have created a lot of damage. Today the Iranian economy and infrastructure are impacted. These sanctions are illegal. Because of these sanctions we have seen that many people in Iran who are suffering from hemophilia, thalassemia, the children, innocent children have not been able to access the necessary pharmaceuticals and many of them have fallen prey to these sanctions. These sanctions are denying the basic human rights of the Iranian people which should be noted. So, you heard the name of Mahsa Amini and reflected in your reports but there are others who have fallen prey because necessary pharmaceuticals were denied to them, they were suffering from thalassemia, and they died. Many Iranian children have fallen prey to the consequences of sanctions followed by western regimes. The main reason the names are not heard in your media is that western media are intermediaries between us and independent nations and countries like India. So independent media, like media in India, should get news directly so that they can access real developments, and real stories of our country. Also read | Lt Gen Asim Munir named Pakistan’s new army chief WION: We have seen people being killed, your soccer team did not sing the Iran national anthem, what would you say to that? Bagheri Kani: The national anthem, which is customary, sometimes the soccer team members whisper, I don't think that is a sign of showing anything. This is customary, some whisper, and some don't whisper. This is one of the deceptions on part of western media, they are having own view of things. WION: Protesters, women protesters don't want to wear the headscarf, what would you say about that, and does it go against your culture? Bagheri Kani: Iran is a free society and people enjoy the freedom of expression. The viewpoints, women, men, and different age groups within the framework of Iranian laws, and constitution, are free to express views and perspectives based on rules and regulations. WION: How do you see India's stance on the issue? Bagheri Kani: The Indian government has its own independent perspective regarding the developments in Iran and other countries. That is natural for the India to adopt a position that is not in line with the interest of western regimes. In other areas, we have seen India adopting independent perspectives that are in line with the interest of the nation. For example, look at the position adopted by India in relation to sanctions on Russia that is not following the step of the western regime and that is emanating from a position that is rooted in the interest of the Indian nation and serving the interest of Indian nation, that is showing the smartness on the part of your government. WION: How do you see India-Iran relations and any plans to resume oil trade, oil from Iran to India Bagheri Kani: In regards to Iran, we see no impediment regarding exporting Iranian energy sources to India and we are ready to revive the same transactions that we have regard to the supply of energy sources, contributing to the energy security of India, to have an effective role in it. WION: Are you looking at trading in local currencies, Rupee-Rial Bagheri Kani: See, one of the important infrastructures that need to be strengthened in line with multilateralism in the world is to strengthen the financial and banking mechanism that is not based on the western banking mechanism. Transactions like in rupee, the rial. We are supporting the activation of financial and banking mechanisms, naturally to revive this mechanism, one that paves the way is the supply of energy sources from Iran to India. WION: Any update on the JCPOA? You held talks with EAM on that. Has Iran increased its enrichment of uranium and use of advanced centrifuges at two nuclear sites? Bagheri Kani: You pointed to talks with EAM Jaishankar on that, in that conversation we reviewed the latest development in our nuclear negotiations between Iran and other parties but regarding the enrichment activities that we are doing are in line with Iranian rights, also in line with international principles enshrined in NPT, based on the IAEA charter, and also safeguards agreements as regards to agreements and pacts. Regarding Iran's nuclear activities, we are following activities based on national interest, and the framework of international documents raised. All our activities are following international regulations and laws and are in line with the rights of the Iranian nation. Also read | China locks down Zhengzhou after iPhone plant protest, Foxconn apologises over hiring WION: Your stand on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and how you see India's stance. Will it change global geopolitics? Bagheri Kani: Iran has declared that it is against the war, and it is not throwing its weight behind any party. We are supporting political solution that is based on reasonable initiatives. What I would like to stress, the war in Ukraine is a conspiracy done by the US to undermine Russia and by extension Europe. You must pay attention to the policy and attitude of Trump in relation to Europe. Trump endeavored to undermine Europe. Trump's way was a hard attitude, but Biden is soft, but they are following the same objective. So I would like to stress how independent powers like India and Iran should follow, their frameworks are the same, especially under SCO to strengthen the international system that is based on justice, also in the interest of independent powers and against unilateralism. Not allow unilateralism to be strengthened because of the consequences of the conflict that is being waged in that part of the world. But I believe the final consequence of the war is the weakening of the US itself. Independent countries are the final winners of this conflict. So continued interaction between independent powers like Iran and India is necessary and a must. WION: There have been strikes by Turkey in Northern Syria, your reactions to it.. Bagheri Kani: We have serious and effective cooperation and interaction with the legitimate government in Syria in the same way India has the same type of interaction with the legitimate government of Syria. Sidhant Sibal: But how do you see the Turkish strikes Bagheri Kani: We do not approve of any kind of intervention in the internal affairs of Syria, and we are engaged with other countries in the region under various formats like the Astana format. We are supporting the territorial integrity, interest of the Syrian people, and national interest based on international regulation.

Ready to revive oil exports to India, says Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Bagheri Kani

Saeed Khatibzadeh, the spokesman of the Iranian foreign ministry, the crews of two Greek oil tankers it has seized in the Gulf are not under arrest and are in "good health".

According to him the ties between Iran and Greece have ties between the two countries as having "always been based on mutual respect."

In a veiled attack on the US for asking Greece to seize the crude oil cargo of an Iranian-flagged tanker, Khatibzadeh said the ties between Tehran and Athens "must not be hampered by deeply shortsighted miscalculations, including highway robbery on the command of a third party".

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The Revolutionary Guards, the ideological arm of Iran's military, had previously warned the United States that it would take "punitive action" following a “judicial intervention by US authorities concerning the ship’s cargo”.

Iran's Ports and Maritime Organisation said in a statement, "The crew of the two Greek tankers have not been arrested, and all crew members ... are in good health and are being protected, and provided with necessary services while on board, in accordance with international law."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tit-for-tat-iran-flares-tensions-after-seizing-two-greek-oil-tankers-in-persian-gulf-482765" hreflang="en">Tit-for-tat: Iran flares tensions after seizing two Greek oil tankers in Persian Gulf</a>

Slamming the "tantamount to acts of piracy", Greece had condemned Tehran's detention of the two ships.

According to the Greek foreign ministry, among the crew members of the two ships, nine of them are Greek citizens.

Comparing the seizing of its tankers to sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, Greece said Iranian navy helicopters had landed gunmen on the two tankers.

In 2018, the US had reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran's lucrative oil exports after former US President Donald Trump pulled out of a nuclear agreement between Tehran and major powers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Saeed Khatibzadeh, the spokesman of the Iranian foreign ministry, the crews of two Greek oil tankers it has seized in the Gulf are not under arrest and are in "good health".

Saeed Khatibzadeh, the spokesman of the Iranian foreign ministry, the crews of two Greek oil tankers it has seized in the Gulf are not under arrest and are in "good health". According to him the ties between Iran and Greece have ties between the two countries as having "always been based on mutual respect." In a veiled attack on the US for asking Greece to seize the crude oil cargo of an Iranian-flagged tanker, Khatibzadeh said the ties between Tehran and Athens "must not be hampered by deeply shortsighted miscalculations, including highway robbery on the command of a third party". The Revolutionary Guards, the ideological arm of Iran's military, had previously warned the United States that it would take "punitive action" following a “judicial intervention by US authorities concerning the ship’s cargo”. Iran's Ports and Maritime Organisation said in a statement, "The crew of the two Greek tankers have not been arrested, and all crew members ... are in good health and are being protected, and provided with necessary services while on board, in accordance with international law." Also read | Tit-for-tat: Iran flares tensions after seizing two Greek oil tankers in Persian Gulf Slamming the "tantamount to acts of piracy", Greece had condemned Tehran's detention of the two ships. According to the Greek foreign ministry, among the crew members of the two ships, nine of them are Greek citizens. Comparing the seizing of its tankers to sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, Greece said Iranian navy helicopters had landed gunmen on the two tankers. In 2018, the US had reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran's lucrative oil exports after former US President Donald Trump pulled out of a nuclear agreement between Tehran and major powers. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's foreign ministry says crews of seized Greek tankers not arrested, 'in good health'

President Hassan Rouhani announced Thursday that Iran is exporting crude oil&nbsp;has opened its first oil export terminal outside the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint patrolled by warships of its arch-foe the United States.

Iranian state media described the move as an indication that sanctions imposed by the US were being defeated.

The new terminal is located near Jask port on the Gulf of Oman, allowing ships headed into the Arabian Sea and beyond to avoid the narrow strait.&nbsp;The shortcut also reduces transportation and insurance expenses for oil tankers.

Iran's main oil export terminal is located at the port of Kharg inside the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway less than 40 kilometres (25 miles) across at its narrowest point.

Washington placed sanctions on Tehran after former US President Donald Trump pulled his country out of a nuclear deal between Iran and world powers.

The project, which began in 2019 and will cost some $2 billion in total, helps Iran lessen its dependency on its main oil export terminal on the Persian Gulf island of Kharg.

The facility currently allows the pumping of some 30,000 barrels of crude into tankers per hour, via a floating anchored offshore jetty, or single point mooring. It is located some seven kilometers (4.7 miles) off the coast.

Iran&nbsp;has built a 1,000 kilometre (600 mile) pipeline to carry its crude to the new terminal in the southeast from Goreh in Bushehr province.

(With inputs from agencies)

President Hassan Rouhani announced Thursday that Iran is exporting crude oil has opened its first oil export terminal outside the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint patrolled by warships of its arch-foe the United States.

President Hassan Rouhani announced Thursday that Iran is exporting crude oil has opened its first oil export terminal outside the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint patrolled by warships of its arch-foe the United States. Iranian state media described the move as an indication that sanctions imposed by the US were being defeated. The new terminal is located near Jask port on the Gulf of Oman, allowing ships headed into the Arabian Sea and beyond to avoid the narrow strait. The shortcut also reduces transportation and insurance expenses for oil tankers. Iran's main oil export terminal is located at the port of Kharg inside the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway less than 40 kilometres (25 miles) across at its narrowest point. Washington placed sanctions on Tehran after former US President Donald Trump pulled his country out of a nuclear deal between Iran and world powers. The project, which began in 2019 and will cost some $2 billion in total, helps Iran lessen its dependency on its main oil export terminal on the Persian Gulf island of Kharg. The facility currently allows the pumping of some 30,000 barrels of crude into tankers per hour, via a floating anchored offshore jetty, or single point mooring. It is located some seven kilometers (4.7 miles) off the coast. Iran has built a 1,000 kilometre (600 mile) pipeline to carry its crude to the new terminal in the southeast from Goreh in Bushehr province. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran: Rouhani announces opening of oil export terminal bypassing Hormuz Strait

Iran has planned to roughly double its oil production in the next year -- as the country anticipates a loosening of US sanctions after Joe Biden assumes power.

Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh told lawmakers on Saturday the government aims to pump 4.5 million barrels a day of oil and gas condensate, during the next Iranian calendar year.

Zanganeh also said Iran will increase oil exports to 2.3 million barrels daily, IRNA reported.

Iran’s oil production had earlier almost halved to 1.9 million barrels a day since US President Donald Trump withdrew from a nuclear deal with the Islamic Republic in 2018 and tightened sanctions. And exports, as high as 2.6 million barrels a day three years ago, have dropped to just 133,000.

Biden, who is scheduled to be sworn in as president on January 20, has signalled he wants to bring Iran back into the accord that was brokered when he was vice president under Barack Obama.

Iran has planned to roughly double its oil production in the next year -- as the country anticipates a loosening of US sanctions after Joe Biden assumes power. Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh told lawmakers on Saturday the government aims to pump 4.

Iran has planned to roughly double its oil production in the next year -- as the country anticipates a loosening of US sanctions after Joe Biden assumes power. Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh told lawmakers on Saturday the government aims to pump 4.5 million barrels a day of oil and gas condensate, during the next Iranian calendar year. Zanganeh also said Iran will increase oil exports to 2.3 million barrels daily, IRNA reported. Iran’s oil production had earlier almost halved to 1.9 million barrels a day since US President Donald Trump withdrew from a nuclear deal with the Islamic Republic in 2018 and tightened sanctions. And exports, as high as 2.6 million barrels a day three years ago, have dropped to just 133,000. Biden, who is scheduled to be sworn in as president on January 20, has signalled he wants to bring Iran back into the accord that was brokered when he was vice president under Barack Obama.

Iran wants to hike oil production next year

The United States imposed sanctions Wednesday on five Iranian ship captains who delivered oil to Venezuela, as Washington ratcheted up pressure on President Nicolas Maduro, whose government it considers illegitimate.

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US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the Iranian-flagged oil tankers, which delivered some 1.5 million barrels of gasoline and oil to Venezuela in recent weeks, had been placed on the US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) blacklist.

"Mariners who do business with Iran and Venezuela will face consequences from the United States of America," Pompeo said.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza responded on Twitter, calling the move "more proof of the hatred by (US President Donald) Trump's hawks against Venezuela".

"As a result of today's sanctions, these captains' assets will be blocked. Their careers and prospects will suffer from this designation," Pompeo said.

"The rogue regimes in Caracas and Tehran are unified by their penchant for repressing their people, corruption, self-enrichment, and gross mismanagement of their people's wealth," Pompeo added.

Iran said the latest sanctions showed the US campaign against it was failing.

"US desperate moves against Iranian individuals... just signal the miserable failure of the so-called 'max pressure'," foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi tweeted.

"Despite US pressure, #Iran &amp; #Venezuela remain steadfast in countering unlawful American sanctions," he added.

The move came as Venezuela accused the United States Wednesday of "an act of provocation" after a US warship steamed close to the South American country's territorial waters the previous day.

The vessel sailed in an area that "the illegitimate Maduro regime falsely claims to have control over," the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) said in a statement.

The United States imposed sanctions Wednesday on five Iranian ship captains who delivered oil to Venezuela, as Washington ratcheted up pressure on President Nicolas Maduro, whose government it considers illegitimate.

The United States imposed sanctions Wednesday on five Iranian ship captains who delivered oil to Venezuela, as Washington ratcheted up pressure on President Nicolas Maduro, whose government it considers illegitimate. Also read: COVID 19: WHO warns possible lack of oxygen as cases near 10 million US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the Iranian-flagged oil tankers, which delivered some 1.5 million barrels of gasoline and oil to Venezuela in recent weeks, had been placed on the US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) blacklist. "Mariners who do business with Iran and Venezuela will face consequences from the United States of America," Pompeo said. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza responded on Twitter, calling the move "more proof of the hatred by (US President Donald) Trump's hawks against Venezuela". "As a result of today's sanctions, these captains' assets will be blocked. Their careers and prospects will suffer from this designation," Pompeo said. "The rogue regimes in Caracas and Tehran are unified by their penchant for repressing their people, corruption, self-enrichment, and gross mismanagement of their people's wealth," Pompeo added. Iran said the latest sanctions showed the US campaign against it was failing. "US desperate moves against Iranian individuals... just signal the miserable failure of the so-called 'max pressure'," foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi tweeted. "Despite US pressure, #Iran & #Venezuela remain steadfast in countering unlawful American sanctions," he added. The move came as Venezuela accused the United States Wednesday of "an act of provocation" after a US warship steamed close to the South American country's territorial waters the previous day. The vessel sailed in an area that "the illegitimate Maduro regime falsely claims to have control over," the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) said in a statement.

US sanctions five Iranian ship captains over Venezuela oil delivery

US President Donald Trump's first ever speech at the UN general assembly in 2019 saw him call Iran, a cover for a corrupt dictatorship. Trump also aims to bring Iran's Oil exports down to zero. Watch full video to know more.

US President Donald Trump aims to bring Iran's Oil exports down to zero

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