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

Iran's missile campaign is putting growing pressure on US military operations across West Asia, while Washington weighs its next move and President Donald Trump turns increasingly toward economic pressure and sanctions.

The USS Abraham Lincoln has become a central focus of the conflict, with questions emerging over resupply, deployment pressures and the ability of US forces to sustain extended operations in the region.

The conflict has also placed major pressure on American logistics infrastructure. Following attacks on key regional facilities, US forces have reportedly had to rely on alternative supply routes, including facilities farther from the Gulf.

Iranian missile attacks have forced US commanders to protect military bases, naval vessels and logistics hubs across the region, while American warships continue moving through strategically important waters.

Iran Missiles Pressure US War Machine As Trump Weighs Exit, Sanctions And Hormuz Crisis Deepen

Iran on Saturday (Aug 22) warned countries against joining the United States in imposing economic sanctions on the Islamic Republic, saying any government that participates in Washington’s campaign will be treated as an enemy. The head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, Mohsen Rezai, issued the warning as US President Donald Trump’s administration stepped up pressure on allies to join efforts to isolate Tehran’s economy.“We declare to all countries... do not join the economic war waged by the United States,” Rezai said on state television.“Any country participating in the imposition of economic restrictions against us is considered an enemy,” he added.Rezai warned that countries refusing to distance themselves from Washington could see their interests targeted by Iran. His comments marked a sharp escalation in Tehran’s rhetoric as the conflict between Iran and the US continues to strain regional security and trade.The Iranian official also claimed that Tehran had not yet used its full range of options against American economic interests.<h2>Iran threatens against US sanctions</h2>“So far, we have only targeted military bases, but if they want to impose economic sanctions on us, the United States has oil and economic companies around Iran and elsewhere, and we will strike them,” Rezai said.He further warned that any fresh action by US President Donald Trump could trigger a much broader confrontation.“Should Trump take action, our confrontation will be like an earthquake,” Rezai said.“If they start such an action, we will not allow a single drop of oil to pass through the Persian Gulf. Oil will leave neither through the Strait of Hormuz nor through the Persian Gulf,” he added.Washington has been pressing governments, including major trading partners of Iran, to support its campaign to restrict Tehran’s access to international markets. China, one of Iran’s key strategic partners, has criticised the US approach, arguing that sanctions would not help resolve the wider Middle East conflict.Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday (Aug 18) announced that it was suspending all trade and financial transactions with Iran until further notice, marking a significant setback for Tehran’s regional economic ties.

Iran warns countries joining US sanctions they will be treated as enemies, threatening to target their interests. Tehran also warns Trump that any escalation could trigger a wider confrontation.

Iran on Saturday (Aug 22) warned countries against joining the United States in imposing economic sanctions on the Islamic Republic, saying any government that participates in Washington’s campaign will be treated as an enemy. The head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, Mohsen Rezai, issued the warning as US President Donald Trump’s administration stepped up pressure on allies to join efforts to isolate Tehran’s economy. “We declare to all countries... do not join the economic war waged by the United States,” Rezai said on state television. “Any country participating in the imposition of economic restrictions against us is considered an enemy,” he added. Rezai warned that countries refusing to distance themselves from Washington could see their interests targeted by Iran. His comments marked a sharp escalation in Tehran’s rhetoric as the conflict between Iran and the US continues to strain regional security and trade. The Iranian official also claimed that Tehran had not yet used its full range of options against American economic interests. Iran threatens against US sanctions “So far, we have only targeted military bases, but if they want to impose economic sanctions on us, the United States has oil and economic companies around Iran and elsewhere, and we will strike them,” Rezai said. He further warned that any fresh action by US President Donald Trump could trigger a much broader confrontation. “Should Trump take action, our confrontation will be like an earthquake,” Rezai said. “If they start such an action, we will not allow a single drop of oil to pass through the Persian Gulf. Oil will leave neither through the Strait of Hormuz nor through the Persian Gulf,” he added. Washington has been pressing governments, including major trading partners of Iran, to support its campaign to restrict Tehran’s access to international markets. China, one of Iran’s key strategic partners, has criticised the US approach, arguing that sanctions would not help resolve the wider Middle East conflict. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday (Aug 18) announced that it was suspending all trade and financial transactions with Iran until further notice, marking a significant setback for Tehran’s regional economic ties.

Iran warns countries joining US sanctions they will be treated as enemies, threatening to target their interests. Tehran also warns Trump that any escalation could trigger a wider confrontation.

‘Confrontation like an earthquake’: Iran threatens Trump, warns countries backing US sanctions

Iran-US tensions are intensifying as Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian calls for an end to the month-long war while insisting that Tehran is negotiating from a position of strength. US President Donald Trump, however, says Iran is interested in a deal but is not yet ready to make what he considers the “right deal.”

Trump has also claimed that the United States has total control of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. The comments come as Washington increases economic and maritime pressure on Tehran.

Iran has rejected the latest US pressure campaign and warned that further threats could trigger a strong military response. Iranian officials say Tehran remains prepared to defend its strategic waterways and interests across the region.

Meanwhile, the United States is expected to announce new sanctions targeting Iran, while discussions involving Iran and Oman continue over possible conditions for resuming talks, including security and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran-US War: Tehran Calls For End To Month-Long Conflict |Trump Says Iran Not Ready For “Right Deal”

The United States has imposed sanctions on six entities and one individual linked to what it described as Iran's illicit digital asset network, accusing Tehran of using cryptocurrency channels to move billions of dollars and maintain international financial connections. The move comes days after Iran allegedly attacked commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.<h2>Two crypto exchanges targeted</h2>US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the sanctions target two major digital asset exchanges that Washington claims are used by the Iranian regime to maintain access to the international financial system.The measures also target what the State Department described as the ringleader of a network involved in illicit digital asset activity, along with companies linked to him across multiple jurisdictions.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-attack-coming-wait-never-mind-iran-mocks-us-theatre-diplomacy-rejects-trump-s-claim-of-hormuz-progress-1786068935549">'Massive attack coming... wait, never mind': Iran mocks US 'theatre diplomacy,' rejects Trump's claim of Hormuz progress</a>"The Iranian regime launders billions of dollars by moving illicit funds through various channels, including digital asset exchanges," Pigott said.He added that Washington would continue working to cut off the financial resources Iran needs to threaten neighbouring countries, support terrorism and advance its nuclear programme.<h2>$15 million reward for intel on Iran’s IRGC financial network</h2>Alongside the sanctions, the State Department said its Rewards for Justice programme is offering up to $15 million for information that helps disrupt the financial mechanisms of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its affiliated branches.The sanctions were imposed under Executive Order 13902, which targets individuals and entities operating in Iran's financial and petroleum sectors, and Executive Order 13224, a counterterrorism authority used against terrorism financing networks.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-strait-of-hormuz-remains-open-despite-unwarranted-iranian-aggression-as-report-suggest-deal-to-reopen-vital-waterway-close-1785897369267">US says Strait of Hormuz remains open despite ‘unwarranted Iranian aggression,’ as report suggest deal to reopen vital waterway close</a><h2>Move follows Strait of Hormuz attacks</h2>Washington said the latest sanctions were directly linked to Iran's attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week. The waterway has become a major flashpoint in the confrontation between the two countries, with its security and reopening also emerging as a key issue in discussions between Washington and Tehran.&nbsp;The sanctions come just a day after President Donald Trump said he believed the conflict with Iran could end “pretty soon.”&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, 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.

The US has sanctioned six entities and one individual over an alleged Iranian crypto network used to move billions of dollars. Washington also offered up to $15 million for information on the IRGC's financial networks.

The United States has imposed sanctions on six entities and one individual linked to what it described as Iran's illicit digital asset network, accusing Tehran of using cryptocurrency channels to move billions of dollars and maintain international financial connections. The move comes days after Iran allegedly attacked commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Two crypto exchanges targeted US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the sanctions target two major digital asset exchanges that Washington claims are used by the Iranian regime to maintain access to the international financial system. The measures also target what the State Department described as the ringleader of a network involved in illicit digital asset activity, along with companies linked to him across multiple jurisdictions. Also read | 'Massive attack coming... wait, never mind': Iran mocks US 'theatre diplomacy,' rejects Trump's claim of Hormuz progress "The Iranian regime launders billions of dollars by moving illicit funds through various channels, including digital asset exchanges," Pigott said. He added that Washington would continue working to cut off the financial resources Iran needs to threaten neighbouring countries, support terrorism and advance its nuclear programme. $15 million reward for intel on Iran’s IRGC financial network Alongside the sanctions, the State Department said its Rewards for Justice programme is offering up to $15 million for information that helps disrupt the financial mechanisms of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its affiliated branches. The sanctions were imposed under Executive Order 13902, which targets individuals and entities operating in Iran's financial and petroleum sectors, and Executive Order 13224, a counterterrorism authority used against terrorism financing networks. Also read | US says Strait of Hormuz remains open despite ‘unwarranted Iranian aggression,’ as report suggest deal to reopen vital waterway close Move follows Strait of Hormuz attacks Washington said the latest sanctions were directly linked to Iran's attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week. The waterway has become a major flashpoint in the confrontation between the two countries, with its security and reopening also emerging as a key issue in discussions between Washington and Tehran. The sanctions come just a day after President Donald Trump said he believed the conflict with Iran could end “pretty soon.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, 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.

The US has sanctioned six entities and one individual over an alleged Iranian crypto network used to move billions of dollars. Washington also offered up to $15 million for information on the IRGC's financial networks.

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

The United States on Wednesday (July 29) imposed fresh sanctions on entities linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, accusing them of extorting commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;The US Treasury Department said the measures target eight tankers and 10 entities. The sanctions form part of Washington's ongoing "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran's oil trade and shadow fleet.&nbsp;According to the statement, the latest action targets what it described as "the Iranian regime’s desperate efforts to monetise the Strait of Hormuz and prop up the nation’s failing economy."&nbsp;The US accused Tehran of running an "extortion scheme" backed by Iran's Revolutionary Guard forces commercial ships to buy mandatory maritime "insurance" before transiting the strategic waterway.&nbsp;"These entities manufacture risk, including the threat of vessel seizures, &nbsp;and then charge commercial vessels for coverage against dangers created by the regime itself," a State Department statement said.&nbsp;The sanctions target the Persian Gulf Marine Insurance Company and the HormuzSafe Marine Services Authority, which Washington said have links to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.&nbsp;The US also sanctioned eight companies operating vessels that it accused of transporting Iranian crude oil and petrochemicals to China and the United Arab Emirates in violation of existing US sanctions.&nbsp;These ships are "part of Iran's 'shadow fleet,' which the regime relies on to evade sanctions," the State Department said.&nbsp;"With its economy in freefall and inflation in the triple digits, the regime is desperate for cash," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was quoted as saying.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-ll-be-hitting-them-hard-trump-s-expletive-laden-warning-to-iran-after-missile-attack-on-us-bases-in-jordan-1785335199804">'We’ll be hitting them hard': Trump's expletive-laden warning to Iran after missile attack on US bases in Jordan</a>&nbsp;The sanctions come amid renewed tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy trade. After hostilities with Washington resumed on July 7, Iran again blocked the waterway and claimed the right to impose transit fees on ships. It also allowed vessels to pass only along a route close to its coastline. The United States, meanwhile, has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports.&nbsp;The latest US action also comes after President Donald Trump warned that the United States would strike Iran "hard" following a missile attack on US bases in Jordan. The development has reignited the Middle East conflict after a pause lasting several days.&nbsp;Since the start of 2026, the US Office of Foreign Assets Control has sanctioned more than 100 vessels linked to Iran's shadow fleet, which Washington says has been used to keep Iranian oil revenue flowing despite international sanctions.

President Donald Trump threatened Iran with a forceful response after a missile attack on US bases in Jordan, as Washington imposed fresh sanctions over a Hormuz "extortion scheme."

The United States on Wednesday (July 29) imposed fresh sanctions on entities linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, accusing them of extorting commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The US Treasury Department said the measures target eight tankers and 10 entities. The sanctions form part of Washington's ongoing "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran's oil trade and shadow fleet. According to the statement, the latest action targets what it described as "the Iranian regime’s desperate efforts to monetise the Strait of Hormuz and prop up the nation’s failing economy." The US accused Tehran of running an "extortion scheme" backed by Iran's Revolutionary Guard forces commercial ships to buy mandatory maritime "insurance" before transiting the strategic waterway. "These entities manufacture risk, including the threat of vessel seizures, and then charge commercial vessels for coverage against dangers created by the regime itself," a State Department statement said. The sanctions target the Persian Gulf Marine Insurance Company and the HormuzSafe Marine Services Authority, which Washington said have links to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The US also sanctioned eight companies operating vessels that it accused of transporting Iranian crude oil and petrochemicals to China and the United Arab Emirates in violation of existing US sanctions. These ships are "part of Iran's 'shadow fleet,' which the regime relies on to evade sanctions," the State Department said. "With its economy in freefall and inflation in the triple digits, the regime is desperate for cash," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was quoted as saying. Also Read: 'We’ll be hitting them hard': Trump's expletive-laden warning to Iran after missile attack on US bases in Jordan The sanctions come amid renewed tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy trade. After hostilities with Washington resumed on July 7, Iran again blocked the waterway and claimed the right to impose transit fees on ships. It also allowed vessels to pass only along a route close to its coastline. The United States, meanwhile, has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports. The latest US action also comes after President Donald Trump warned that the United States would strike Iran "hard" following a missile attack on US bases in Jordan. The development has reignited the Middle East conflict after a pause lasting several days. Since the start of 2026, the US Office of Foreign Assets Control has sanctioned more than 100 vessels linked to Iran's shadow fleet, which Washington says has been used to keep Iranian oil revenue flowing despite international sanctions.

President Donald Trump threatened Iran with a forceful response after a missile attack on US bases in Jordan, as Washington imposed fresh sanctions over a Hormuz "extortion scheme."

US targets Iran with fresh sanctions over Hormuz 'extortion scheme'

Diplomatic tensions sharpened on Saturday as the United States firmly denied claims that it had agreed to release Iran’s frozen assets, even as negotiations to end the Middle East conflict began in Islamabad. The dispute highlights how financial restrictions have become central to geopolitical bargaining. While an unnamed Iranian source suggested progress had been made, a senior White House official dismissed the assertion outright, stating: “False. The meetings have not even started yet.” The contradiction sets the tone for talks that remain precarious and closely watched.<h2>What are Iran’s frozen assets?</h2>Iran’s frozen assets are funds held in foreign banks that Tehran cannot access due to international sanctions. These include oil revenues, foreign exchange reserves and other state-controlled holdings accumulated over years of restricted trade. A portion of these funds is held in countries such as Qatar and South Korea, often arising from energy transactions conducted under sanction-limited frameworks. A central component of Iran’s frozen assets is the $6 billion derived from oil sales to South Korea, initially blocked in 2018 after Donald Trump reimposed sanctions and scrapped a deal between world powers and Tehran over its nuclear programme. The funds were later moved to Qatari accounts under a 2023 prisoner swap mediated by Qatar, involving the exchange of five US citizens and five Iranians. US officials said at that time that ⁠the money ​was restricted to humanitarian use only, the money was frozen again by the administration of Joe Biden following the October 7 attacks by Hamas, with Washington stressing Iran would not access it “for the foreseeable future.”&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/after-four-decades-of-enmity-can-us-and-iran-finally-make-peace-at-islamabad-negotiations-1775897733420">After four decades of enmity, can US and Iran finally make peace at Islamabad negotiations?</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Islamabad April 11 ,2026. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with the Iranian delegation at the Islamabad Talks today. The Iranian side was led by the Honorable Speaker of the Iranian Consultative Assembly, Mr. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, assisted by Foreign… <a href="https://t.co/xUSCq9sGpS">pic.twitter.com/xUSCq9sGpS</a>&mdash; Prime Minister&#39;s Office (@PakPMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/PakPMO/status/2042941253835473200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>Why do they matter in negotiations?</h2>The unfreezing of assets has long been a central demand of Tehran in diplomatic engagements. Iranian officials maintain that any durable agreement must include access to these funds, framing them as sovereign resources rather than concessions. Among the four demands, put forth by the Iranian delegation are:&nbsp;&nbsp;* full sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz,&nbsp; * complete war reparations by the aggressor,&nbsp; * unconditional release of blocked assets, and&nbsp; * a durable ceasefire across the entire West-Asia Region.&nbsp;Early, even before the meeting begun an unnamed "senior Iranian source" told news outlet Reuters that the United States had agreed to unfreeze the assets and that the move was directly linked to ensuring safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-annihilation-threat-to-ceasefire-deal-how-did-trump-pivot-so-quickly-on-iran-1775650749141">From ‘annihilation’ threat to ceasefire deal: How did Trump pivot so quickly on Iran?</a><h2>What is happening now?</h2>Talks have formally begun in Islamabad. Pakistani officials described the peace process as having “commenced”, though substantive discussions are still in early stages. Despite Iranian claims, Washington has made clear that no agreement on asset release has been reached. The US denial underscores enduring mistrust and the complexity of linking financial sanctions to ceasefire negotiations. For now, Iran’s frozen billions remain both an economic constraint and a strategic bargaining tool at the heart of fragile diplomacy.

Iran’s frozen assets are funds held in foreign banks that Tehran cannot access due to international sanctions. These include oil revenues, foreign exchange reserves and other state-controlled holdings accumulated over years of restricted trade. 

Diplomatic tensions sharpened on Saturday as the United States firmly denied claims that it had agreed to release Iran’s frozen assets, even as negotiations to end the Middle East conflict began in Islamabad. The dispute highlights how financial restrictions have become central to geopolitical bargaining. While an unnamed Iranian source suggested progress had been made, a senior White House official dismissed the assertion outright, stating: “False. The meetings have not even started yet.” The contradiction sets the tone for talks that remain precarious and closely watched. What are Iran’s frozen assets? Iran’s frozen assets are funds held in foreign banks that Tehran cannot access due to international sanctions. These include oil revenues, foreign exchange reserves and other state-controlled holdings accumulated over years of restricted trade. A portion of these funds is held in countries such as Qatar and South Korea, often arising from energy transactions conducted under sanction-limited frameworks. A central component of Iran’s frozen assets is the $6 billion derived from oil sales to South Korea, initially blocked in 2018 after Donald Trump reimposed sanctions and scrapped a deal between world powers and Tehran over its nuclear programme. The funds were later moved to Qatari accounts under a 2023 prisoner swap mediated by Qatar, involving the exchange of five US citizens and five Iranians. US officials said at that time that ⁠the money was restricted to humanitarian use only, the money was frozen again by the administration of Joe Biden following the October 7 attacks by Hamas, with Washington stressing Iran would not access it “for the foreseeable future.” ALSO READ: After four decades of enmity, can US and Iran finally make peace at Islamabad negotiations?

Iran’s frozen assets are funds held in foreign banks that Tehran cannot access due to international sanctions. These include oil revenues, foreign exchange reserves and other state-controlled holdings accumulated over years of restricted trade.&nbsp;

What are Iran’s billion-dollar frozen assets? Why is Tehran demanding release of these funds in US-Iran peace talks in Pakistan?

Iran on Sunday (Oct 13) condemned the latest US sanctions on its oil industry, calling them "illegal and unjustified". The US imposed the sanctions after Tehran's missile attack on Israel earlier this month.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, defended the strike as lawful, and insisted that Iran had the right to respond to the new sanctions.&nbsp;

Baghaei criticised the US, accusing it of supporting Israel's aggression. He said that the US&nbsp;"policy of threats and maximum pressure" had no impact on "Iran's will to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity, national interests, and citizens&nbsp;against any violation and foreign aggressions."

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:179,&quot;w&quot;:768,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1869}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-tried-to-persuade-iran-and-hezbollah-to-join-its-october-7-attack-on-israel-says-report-766995">Gaza war: Hamas tried to persuade Iran and Hezbollah to join its October 7 attack on Israel, says report</a>

He argued that these measures enable Israel "to continue killing innocents and pose a threat to the peace and unity of the region and the world".

The&nbsp;sanctions come amid rising tensions, with oil prices climbing to their highest since August. US President Joe Biden has cautioned Israel against targeting Iran's oil infrastructure, one of the world's 10 largest producers. Iran has warned that any attack on its facilities "will provoke an even stronger response".

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:347,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2037}">US' latest sanctions against Iran</h2>

The new US sanctions, introduced on Friday (Oct 11), target ships and companies involved in transporting Iranian oil.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-intercepts-about-five-projectiles-from-lebanon-top-updates-767006">West Asia crisis: Israel intercepts about five projectiles from Lebanon- Top updates</a>

The US Treasury said it targeted Tehran's so-called shadow fleet of ships involved in selling Iranian oil, bypassing existing restrictions. Furthermore, the US Treasury Department blacklisted 10 companies and 17 vessels as "blocked property".

Meanwhile, the State Department sanctioned six more firms and ships for "knowingly engaging in a significant transaction for the purchase, acquisition, sale, transport, or marketing of petroleum or petroleum products from Iran".

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran on Sunday (Oct 13) condemned the latest US sanctions on its oil industry, calling them "illegal and unjustified". The US imposed the sanctions after Tehran's missile attack on Israel earlier this month.

Iran on Sunday (Oct 13) condemned the latest US sanctions on its oil industry, calling them "illegal and unjustified". The US imposed the sanctions after Tehran's missile attack on Israel earlier this month. In a statement, the Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, defended the strike as lawful, and insisted that Iran had the right to respond to the new sanctions. Baghaei criticised the US, accusing it of supporting Israel's aggression. He said that the US "policy of threats and maximum pressure" had no impact on "Iran's will to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity, national interests, and citizens against any violation and foreign aggressions." Also read | Gaza war: Hamas tried to persuade Iran and Hezbollah to join its October 7 attack on Israel, says report He argued that these measures enable Israel "to continue killing innocents and pose a threat to the peace and unity of the region and the world". The sanctions come amid rising tensions, with oil prices climbing to their highest since August. US President Joe Biden has cautioned Israel against targeting Iran's oil infrastructure, one of the world's 10 largest producers. Iran has warned that any attack on its facilities "will provoke an even stronger response". US' latest sanctions against Iran The new US sanctions, introduced on Friday (Oct 11), target ships and companies involved in transporting Iranian oil. Also read | West Asia crisis: Israel intercepts about five projectiles from Lebanon- Top updates The US Treasury said it targeted Tehran's so-called shadow fleet of ships involved in selling Iranian oil, bypassing existing restrictions. Furthermore, the US Treasury Department blacklisted 10 companies and 17 vessels as "blocked property". Meanwhile, the State Department sanctioned six more firms and ships for "knowingly engaging in a significant transaction for the purchase, acquisition, sale, transport, or marketing of petroleum or petroleum products from Iran". (With inputs from agencies)

Iran slams new US oil sanctions, calls them ‘illegal and unjustified’

The United States on Tuesday (July 30) imposed sanctions on five individuals and seven companies from China and Iran for allegedly supporting Tehran’s missile and drone programs.

The United States on Tuesday (July 30) imposed sanctions on five individuals and seven companies from China and Iran for allegedly supporting Tehran’s missile and drone programs. According to a statement from the US Treasury Department, these sanctions target people and businesses in China, Hong Kong, and Iran that were involved in providing key components to entities affiliated with Iran’s Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL). The Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control stated that those affected by the sanctions acquired "various components, including accelerometers and gyroscopes, which are crucial for Iran’s ballistic missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) programs." The Treasury also claimed that one of the sanctioned Iranian companies, Electro Optic Sairan Industries, played a role in developing the Shahed-series UAVs at the Shahed Aviation Industries Research Center. These UAVs, according to the US government agency, are "being used by Russian forces in Ukraine." Treasury Undersecretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson said, "Today's action exposes additional key front companies and trusted agents through which Iran has sought to acquire these components." Also read: China alarmed as US tests 'Quicksink' bomb to rein in bellicose PLA Navy In 2007, the US labelled the Iranian Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics as a threat due to its involvement with weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems. This ministry is also said to be linked to Iran's ballistic missile program. “Iran’s reckless proliferation of its ballistic missiles and UAVs risk further instability and endangers civilian lives. The United States will continue to impose costs on those that facilitate Iran’s ability to produce these deadly weapons,” Nelson said. Masoud Pezeshkian sworn in as Iran's president The announcement was made on the same day as Iranian politician Masoud Pezeshkian was sworn in as the country's president. Pezeshkian, a moderate reformist and former heart surgeon, took office after winning a special election following the death of the previous president, Ebrahim Raisi, in May. On Tuesday, Pezeshkian was officially sworn in as Iran's ninth president during a ceremony that saw attendance from international figures, including representatives from groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, Islamic Jihad, and the Houthis. Although Pezeshkian is seen as a more moderate leader, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken noted in a fireside chat on July 19 that “the supreme leader continues to call the shots.” (With inputs from agencies)

US sanctions China and Iran over Tehran's UAV program as new president Masoud Pezeshkian takes office

The United States added new sanctions on the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation (FSB) and Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for taking "hostage" Americans such as Wall Street Journal reporter arrested in Moscow last month.&nbsp;

The FSB is&nbsp;main successor intelligence agency to the Soviet Union's KGB.

The United States is "showing that one cannot engage in this sort of awful behavior of using human beings as pawns, as bargaining chips, without paying consequences," a senior US official was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.

The US Treasury also placed sanctions on four top officials of the IRGC intelligence body.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-wsj-reporter-violated-russian-law-after-us-designates-detention-wrongful-581424">Kremlin says WSJ reporter 'violated' Russian law after US designates detention 'wrongful'</a>

"Today’s action targets senior officials and security services in Iran and Russia that are responsible for the hostage-taking or wrongful detention of US nationals abroad," said Treasury Under Secretary of the Brian Nelson in a statement.

Both the FSB and IRGC have already been hit with punitive measures by the US State and Treasury Departments in the past.

<h2>Latest US sanctions on Russia, Iran: What do they mean?</h2>

The new sanctions reportedly underscore Washington's view that its adversaries are detaining foreign nationals to extract political benefits.

"The use of human beings as political pawns, as bargaining chips, detained by governments but on false pretenses, is a practice that seems to be trending in the wrong direction," the aforementioned official further told AFP.

Applying sanctions aims "to promote accountability for the culprits, and by doing so, to prevent and deter the next set of cases from arising in the first place," the official said.

The sanctions came a month after Russia detained Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, charging him with spying.

<h2>American citizens detained by&nbsp;Iran and Russia</h2>

The United States is seeking the release of Evan Gershkovich, and that of Paul Whelan, a former US Marine arrested in Russia in 2018 and sentenced to prison two years later for alleged spying.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russia charges WSJ reporter Evan Gershkovich with spying

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Last year in prisoner swaps the US secured the release from Russia of basketball star Brittney Griner, jailed on drugs charges and another former Marine, Trevor Reed, imprisoned for assaulting a Russian police officer.

At least three US citizens are being held in Iranian prisons, including businessman Siamak Namazi, held in Tehran's Evin prison since 2015.

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The United States added new sanctions on the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation (FSB) and Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for taking "hostage" Americans such as Wall Street Journal reporter arrested in Moscow last month.

The United States added new sanctions on the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation (FSB) and Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for taking "hostage" Americans such as Wall Street Journal reporter arrested in Moscow last month. The FSB is main successor intelligence agency to the Soviet Union's KGB. The United States is "showing that one cannot engage in this sort of awful behavior of using human beings as pawns, as bargaining chips, without paying consequences," a senior US official was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. The US Treasury also placed sanctions on four top officials of the IRGC intelligence body. ALSO READ | Kremlin says WSJ reporter 'violated' Russian law after US designates detention 'wrongful' "Today’s action targets senior officials and security services in Iran and Russia that are responsible for the hostage-taking or wrongful detention of US nationals abroad," said Treasury Under Secretary of the Brian Nelson in a statement. Both the FSB and IRGC have already been hit with punitive measures by the US State and Treasury Departments in the past. Latest US sanctions on Russia, Iran: What do they mean? The new sanctions reportedly underscore Washington's view that its adversaries are detaining foreign nationals to extract political benefits. "The use of human beings as political pawns, as bargaining chips, detained by governments but on false pretenses, is a practice that seems to be trending in the wrong direction," the aforementioned official further told AFP. Applying sanctions aims "to promote accountability for the culprits, and by doing so, to prevent and deter the next set of cases from arising in the first place," the official said. The sanctions came a month after Russia detained Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, charging him with spying. American citizens detained by Iran and Russia The United States is seeking the release of Evan Gershkovich, and that of Paul Whelan, a former US Marine arrested in Russia in 2018 and sentenced to prison two years later for alleged spying. ALSO WATCH | Russia charges WSJ reporter Evan Gershkovich with spying Last year in prisoner swaps the US secured the release from Russia of basketball star Brittney Griner, jailed on drugs charges and another former Marine, Trevor Reed, imprisoned for assaulting a Russian police officer. At least three US citizens are being held in Iranian prisons, including businessman Siamak Namazi, held in Tehran's Evin prison since 2015. 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 sanctions target 'hostage taking' by Russia and Iran

The United States has sanctioned five Iranian groups that it says attempted to interfere in the upcoming presidential election between President Donald Trump and Democratic candidate Joe Biden. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: US punishes Iran for 'election interference'

The United States on Friday announced fresh sanctions against Iran and its officials in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-iran-sanctions-are-already-in-effect-says-us-president-donald-trump-273262">retaliation to the attack on its military bases</a> housing US troops in Iraq.&nbsp;

The targets of the sanctions include, Iran's manufacturing, mining and textile sectors, as well as several senior Iranian officials who Washington said, were involved in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missile-strike-was-start-of-a-series-of-attacks-across-the-region-iranian-commander-273235">Wednesday's strikes</a>.

"As a result of these actions, we will cut off billions of dollars of support to the Iranian regime," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told reporters at a White House briefing while standing beside the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

Mnuchin also said that the measures hitting Iran's economy "will continue until the regime stops the funding of global terrorism and commits to never having nuclear weapons." &nbsp;

Among the targeted senior Iranian officials, are Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Mohammad Reza Ashtiani, the Iranian armed forces deputy chief of staff and Gholamreza Soleimani, the head of the Basij militia, a volunteer force loyal to the regime.

The US said that these officials are working towards the disability of the region.

The US Treasury also slapped sanction on 17 Iranian metals producers and mining companies which it said generated billions of dollars in revenue.

The sanctions also included a network of three entities that are based in China and Seychelles as well as a vessel "involved in the purchase, sale, and transfer of Iranian metals products," the Treasury said in a statement.

Tensions between Washington&nbsp;and Tehran saw a dramatic escalation last week after the US killed Iran's top military commander Qasem Soleimani in a drone attack on its Baghdad International Airport.

Soon after the attack, Iran vowed to take "severe revenge". On Wednesday Iran <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fires-missiles-at-us-bases-in-iraq-272811">fired ballistic missiles on US airbases in Iraq&nbsp;</a>targeting Al-Asad and Irbil.

Although the two sides seem to have stepped back from the brink of armed conflict, Trump vowed on Wednesday to impose the additional sanctions.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Friday announced fresh sanctions against Iran and its officials in retaliation to the attack on its military bases housing US troops in Iraq.

The United States on Friday announced fresh sanctions against Iran and its officials in retaliation to the attack on its military bases housing US troops in Iraq. The targets of the sanctions include, Iran's manufacturing, mining and textile sectors, as well as several senior Iranian officials who Washington said, were involved in the Wednesday's strikes. "As a result of these actions, we will cut off billions of dollars of support to the Iranian regime," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told reporters at a White House briefing while standing beside the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Mnuchin also said that the measures hitting Iran's economy "will continue until the regime stops the funding of global terrorism and commits to never having nuclear weapons." Among the targeted senior Iranian officials, are Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Mohammad Reza Ashtiani, the Iranian armed forces deputy chief of staff and Gholamreza Soleimani, the head of the Basij militia, a volunteer force loyal to the regime. The US said that these officials are working towards the disability of the region. The US Treasury also slapped sanction on 17 Iranian metals producers and mining companies which it said generated billions of dollars in revenue. The sanctions also included a network of three entities that are based in China and Seychelles as well as a vessel "involved in the purchase, sale, and transfer of Iranian metals products," the Treasury said in a statement. Tensions between Washington and Tehran saw a dramatic escalation last week after the US killed Iran's top military commander Qasem Soleimani in a drone attack on its Baghdad International Airport. Soon after the attack, Iran vowed to take "severe revenge". On Wednesday Iran fired ballistic missiles on US airbases in Iraq targeting Al-Asad and Irbil. Although the two sides seem to have stepped back from the brink of armed conflict, Trump vowed on Wednesday to impose the additional sanctions. (With inputs from agencies)

In retaliation to missile attacks, US imposes more sanctions on Iran

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