The United States on Tuesday targeted individuals and entities that have been financial facilitators or enablers of Iran’s military supply chain, as the Trump administration pushes forward with economic sanctions against Tehran at a time when renewed diplomacy between the two countries remains uncertain.&nbsp;The US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned 10 individuals and entities that have procured weapons and weapon components for Iran’s Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL), the entity responsible for weapons research, production, and acquisition for Iran’s armed forces.&nbsp;MODAFL also oversees organisations engaged in the development of Iran’s ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Tuesday, “Under Operation Economic Outcast, Treasury will continue to target and disrupt those who provide material, technological, or financial support that allows the Iranian regime to sustain its terrorist enterprise.”&nbsp;“Treasury will not tolerate any support to the regime and will continue to identify, expose, and isolate Iran’s enablers,” he added.&nbsp;The action on Tuesday further degrades the Iranian regime’s ability to reconstitute its weapons programmes and increases the costs for those who choose to aid Tehran’s military procurement efforts, said a statement.&nbsp;The latest action by the Treasury Department is part of the administration's Operation Economic Outcast campaign, which is aimed at severing “critical financial lifelines” for the already heavily sanctioned Iranian government.&nbsp;Ten individuals and entities based in Iran, Hong Kong, and Pakistan were sanctioned for allegedly procuring weapons and weapon components for Iran’s defence ministry as it fights its now seven-month war against the US.&nbsp;US officials said they want to disrupt Iran’s defence systems and further degrade the government's ability to reconstitute its weapons programme. The aim of the latest sanctions includes increasing the costs for the people and companies that have assisted Iran’s military procurement efforts.&nbsp;Operation Economic Outcast, dubbed “Economic D-Day” by Secretary Scott Bessent, is aimed at severing the remaining economic lifelines that sustain the Iranian regime.&nbsp;The US Treasury has mapped the networks, facilitators, and financial channels that Iran uses to smuggle oil, evade sanctions, and fund terror. Working with partners across the US government, the European Union, United Kingdom, Gulf partners, and others, Treasury is targeting any source of the regime’s illicit revenue.&nbsp;Treasury warned that any entity facilitating money laundering or sanctions evasion on behalf of Iran risks being cut off from the US financial system. It also emphasised the secondary sanctions exposure for those who continue doing business with the Iranian regime and will accelerate the pace of US enforcement.

Ten individuals and entities based in Iran, Hong Kong, and Pakistan were sanctioned for allegedly procuring weapons and weapon components for Iran’s defence ministry as it fights its now seven-month war against the United States.

The United States on Tuesday targeted individuals and entities that have been financial facilitators or enablers of Iran’s military supply chain, as the Trump administration pushes forward with economic sanctions against Tehran at a time when renewed diplomacy between the two countries remains uncertain. The US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned 10 individuals and entities that have procured weapons and weapon components for Iran’s Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL), the entity responsible for weapons research, production, and acquisition for Iran’s armed forces. MODAFL also oversees organisations engaged in the development of Iran’s ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Tuesday, “Under Operation Economic Outcast, Treasury will continue to target and disrupt those who provide material, technological, or financial support that allows the Iranian regime to sustain its terrorist enterprise.” “Treasury will not tolerate any support to the regime and will continue to identify, expose, and isolate Iran’s enablers,” he added. The action on Tuesday further degrades the Iranian regime’s ability to reconstitute its weapons programmes and increases the costs for those who choose to aid Tehran’s military procurement efforts, said a statement. The latest action by the Treasury Department is part of the administration's Operation Economic Outcast campaign, which is aimed at severing “critical financial lifelines” for the already heavily sanctioned Iranian government. Ten individuals and entities based in Iran, Hong Kong, and Pakistan were sanctioned for allegedly procuring weapons and weapon components for Iran’s defence ministry as it fights its now seven-month war against the US. US officials said they want to disrupt Iran’s defence systems and further degrade the government's ability to reconstitute its weapons programme. The aim of the latest sanctions includes increasing the costs for the people and companies that have assisted Iran’s military procurement efforts. Operation Economic Outcast, dubbed “Economic D-Day” by Secretary Scott Bessent, is aimed at severing the remaining economic lifelines that sustain the Iranian regime. The US Treasury has mapped the networks, facilitators, and financial channels that Iran uses to smuggle oil, evade sanctions, and fund terror. Working with partners across the US government, the European Union, United Kingdom, Gulf partners, and others, Treasury is targeting any source of the regime’s illicit revenue. Treasury warned that any entity facilitating money laundering or sanctions evasion on behalf of Iran risks being cut off from the US financial system. It also emphasised the secondary sanctions exposure for those who continue doing business with the Iranian regime and will accelerate the pace of US enforcement.

Ten individuals and entities based in Iran, Hong Kong, and Pakistan were sanctioned for allegedly procuring weapons and weapon components for Iran’s defence ministry as it fights its now seven-month war against the United States.

US Treasury sanctions 10 individuals and entities to target Iran’s military supply chain

The United Arab Emirates has suspended all flights operated by Iranian airlines in compliance with the economic sanctions imposed by the United States, reported Iranian media on Thursday. “All flights by Iranian airlines to the United Arab Emirates have been cancelled since midnight,” the ISNA news agency reported.As a consequence of the halting, an Iran Airtour flight from Tehran to Dubai faced cancellation shortly before its departure.&nbsp;US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had announced new measures earlier this week as part of an earlier threat to impose “economic D-Day” on Iran under ‘Operation Economic Outcast’.&nbsp;On September 8, the Trump administration had designated 27 airlines covering the remaining Iranian carriers that had not previously been sanctioned by Washington. The designations also targeted individuals and entities linked to aviation support and procurement in the UAE, Turkey, China, India, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, and elsewhere.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-issues-potential-danger-warning-for-mecca-second-time-in-a-month-1790252705272">Saudi Arabia issues ‘potential danger’ warning for Mecca, second time in a month</a>&nbsp;Trump has sought to exert financial strain on the Iranian regime to force it into submission for ending the West Asia crisis.&nbsp;After the latest measures were announced, Iranian airlines cancelled some international flights on Wednesday after Georgia and Azerbaijan officially confirmed suspending flights to and from Iran.Flights to Baghdad, Muscat, and Qatar were also halted, reported Iranian media.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Baghdad, Muscat will no longer accept Iran flights’</h2>&nbsp;Baghdad and Muscat airports “will no longer accept” Iran flights, reported Tasnim news agency, citing a civil aviation spokesperson.&nbsp;Meanwhile, despite the sanctions taking effect on Wednesday, Iranian airlines continued to operate some international flights. According to data by flight tracking site Flightradar24, at least half a dozen flights travelled from Iran to destinations including Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand; Shanghai; and Kabul, Afghanistan.&nbsp;Iran’s biggest airport, the Imam Khomeini Airport in Tehran, has flights scheduled to international destinations such as China, Turkey, and Dubai, as well as Najaf in Iraq.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-to-reach-indian-ocean-mojtaba-s-adviser-issues-chilling-warning-to-us-1790249334403">Iran war to reach Indian Ocean? Mojtaba’s adviser issues chilling warning to US</a>&nbsp;The latest development comes after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced new measures aimed at Iranian aviation. Washington has warned that companies providing services such as fuel, landing assistance, and other support to Iranian airlines could face US sanctions.&nbsp;Bessent said the US intends to effectively shut down Iranian carriers by targeting the international aviation infrastructure they depend on.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Iran issues warning, says countries could face reciprocal consequences</h2>&nbsp;Iranian media reports came as airlines operating from Iran faced increasing difficulties accessing international aviation services following the latest US measures.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The growing restrictions have also triggered a warning from Iran. Mohsen Rezaei, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said neighbouring countries could face reciprocal consequences if they cooperated with Washington by stopping Iranian flights.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-defends-trump-iran-annihilate-threat-pezeshkian-un-1790248735509">Trump ‘courageously’ fighting Iran, says White House after ‘annihilate’ threat</a>&nbsp;“If a country cooperates with or embarks on adventures with the United States, its airports will no longer be able to operate flights to Iran,” he said in an interview with Iranian state television.&nbsp;&nbsp;Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said sanctions would only strengthen Iran’s resistance to US pressure.

Washington warned that companies providing services and support to Iranian airlines could face US sanctions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the US intends to effectively shut down Iranian carriers by targeting the international aviation infrastructure they depend on.

The United Arab Emirates has suspended all flights operated by Iranian airlines in compliance with the economic sanctions imposed by the United States, reported Iranian media on Thursday. “All flights by Iranian airlines to the United Arab Emirates have been cancelled since midnight,” the ISNA news agency reported. As a consequence of the halting, an Iran Airtour flight from Tehran to Dubai faced cancellation shortly before its departure. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had announced new measures earlier this week as part of an earlier threat to impose “economic D-Day” on Iran under ‘Operation Economic Outcast’. On September 8, the Trump administration had designated 27 airlines covering the remaining Iranian carriers that had not previously been sanctioned by Washington. The designations also targeted individuals and entities linked to aviation support and procurement in the UAE, Turkey, China, India, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, and elsewhere. Also Read: Saudi Arabia issues ‘potential danger’ warning for Mecca, second time in a month Trump has sought to exert financial strain on the Iranian regime to force it into submission for ending the West Asia crisis. After the latest measures were announced, Iranian airlines cancelled some international flights on Wednesday after Georgia and Azerbaijan officially confirmed suspending flights to and from Iran. Flights to Baghdad, Muscat, and Qatar were also halted, reported Iranian media. ‘Baghdad, Muscat will no longer accept Iran flights’ Baghdad and Muscat airports “will no longer accept” Iran flights, reported Tasnim news agency, citing a civil aviation spokesperson. Meanwhile, despite the sanctions taking effect on Wednesday, Iranian airlines continued to operate some international flights. According to data by flight tracking site Flightradar24, at least half a dozen flights travelled from Iran to destinations including Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand; Shanghai; and Kabul, Afghanistan. Iran’s biggest airport, the Imam Khomeini Airport in Tehran, has flights scheduled to international destinations such as China, Turkey, and Dubai, as well as Najaf in Iraq. Also Read: Iran war to reach Indian Ocean? Mojtaba’s adviser issues chilling warning to US The latest development comes after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced new measures aimed at Iranian aviation. Washington has warned that companies providing services such as fuel, landing assistance, and other support to Iranian airlines could face US sanctions. Bessent said the US intends to effectively shut down Iranian carriers by targeting the international aviation infrastructure they depend on. Iran issues warning, says countries could face reciprocal consequences Iranian media reports came as airlines operating from Iran faced increasing difficulties accessing international aviation services following the latest US measures. The growing restrictions have also triggered a warning from Iran. Mohsen Rezaei, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said neighbouring countries could face reciprocal consequences if they cooperated with Washington by stopping Iranian flights. Also Read: Trump ‘courageously’ fighting Iran, says White House after ‘annihilate’ threat “If a country cooperates with or embarks on adventures with the United States, its airports will no longer be able to operate flights to Iran,” he said in an interview with Iranian state television. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said sanctions would only strengthen Iran’s resistance to US pressure.

Washington warned that companies providing services and support to Iranian airlines could face US sanctions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the US intends to effectively shut down Iranian carriers by targeting the international aviation infrastructure they depend on.

UAE suspends all Iranian airline flights as US sanctions come into effect

Iranian carriers were compelled to cancel a number of international flights on Wednesday (Sep 23) following Washington's decision to intensify sanctions targeting Iran's aviation sector, part of a broader push to weaken the country's economy. A Tehran-based travel agent told news agency AFP that flights bound for Baghdad, Muscat, Qatar, Georgia, and Azerbaijan had been halted, though several other routes including those to China continued to operate.&nbsp;US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent unveiled the fresh measures on Monday, following through on an earlier pledge to unleash an "economic D-Day" on Iran, aimed at pressuring Tehran after nearly seven months of conflict. Iran's aviation industry has long been under sanctions, and it remains uncertain how significant the new restrictions' impact will be, or whether other nations will enforce them.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strike-a-deal-or-drive-iran-into-hell-trump-issues-fresh-warning-to-tehran-at-unga-1790090594288">‘Strike a deal or drive Iran into hell’: Trump issues fresh warning to Tehran at UNGA</a>&nbsp;Despite the sanctions taking hold Wednesday (Sep 23), flight-tracking data from FlightRadar24 showed a Mahan Air flight operated by one of Iran's largest airlines successfully landing in Guangzhou, China. Beijing had stated Tuesday that it considers the US sanctions unlawful and opposes them. A separate flight to Shanghai was also listed for departure, per Tehran's international airport.&nbsp;Some flights to Istanbul remained on schedule, although others were called off, according to the Tehran travel agent, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "The situation is unstable, and we are no longer selling tickets for the time being for fear of cancellations," the agent said.&nbsp;A Mahan Air flight from Kabul was also due to arrive in Tehran around midday, while smaller carriers like Varesh continued offering connections to Turkey and Armenia, according to the airport's website. Flights to Najaf, Iraq, and Dubai, UAE, remained scheduled as well.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-must-stop-arming-houthis-in-yemen-say-g7-nations-ahead-of-un-general-assembly-1790080270883">‘Iran must stop arming Houthis in Yemen,’ say G7 nations ahead of UN General Assembly</a>&nbsp;Bessent had vowed Monday to dismantle Iranian airlines entirely, warning other nations against cooperating with them: fueling, servicing, or selling tickets for Iranian flights could result in exclusion from the dollar-based financial system.&nbsp;These new restrictions are expected to further hinder Iranians' ability to travel internationally or return home. Iranian state media echoed the disruptions, with the Tasnim news agency reporting Tuesday that airports in Baghdad and Muscat would no longer accept Iranian flights, though routes like Istanbul would continue unaffected for now. Tasnim added that aviation officials were exploring rerouting Baghdad-bound flights to Najaf, a key pilgrimage destination for Iranians.&nbsp;In Iraq, government sources told AFP that Baghdad intends to comply with the US sanctions, despite no formal public announcement. This has alarmed Iraqi travel agents, particularly in Najaf, home to a major Shia shrine, where officials say most local travel businesses rely heavily on flight bookings to Iran. Agencies reported a surge of anxious clients inquiring about alternatives, including longer overland routes.

Iranian airlines have been forced to cancel key international flights to regional hubs like Baghdad and Muscat after new US aviation sanctions took effect, disrupting air travel across West Asia.

Iranian carriers were compelled to cancel a number of international flights on Wednesday (Sep 23) following Washington's decision to intensify sanctions targeting Iran's aviation sector, part of a broader push to weaken the country's economy. A Tehran-based travel agent told news agency AFP that flights bound for Baghdad, Muscat, Qatar, Georgia, and Azerbaijan had been halted, though several other routes including those to China continued to operate. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent unveiled the fresh measures on Monday, following through on an earlier pledge to unleash an "economic D-Day" on Iran, aimed at pressuring Tehran after nearly seven months of conflict. Iran's aviation industry has long been under sanctions, and it remains uncertain how significant the new restrictions' impact will be, or whether other nations will enforce them. Also read: ‘Strike a deal or drive Iran into hell’: Trump issues fresh warning to Tehran at UNGA Despite the sanctions taking hold Wednesday (Sep 23), flight-tracking data from FlightRadar24 showed a Mahan Air flight operated by one of Iran's largest airlines successfully landing in Guangzhou, China. Beijing had stated Tuesday that it considers the US sanctions unlawful and opposes them. A separate flight to Shanghai was also listed for departure, per Tehran's international airport. Some flights to Istanbul remained on schedule, although others were called off, according to the Tehran travel agent, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "The situation is unstable, and we are no longer selling tickets for the time being for fear of cancellations," the agent said. A Mahan Air flight from Kabul was also due to arrive in Tehran around midday, while smaller carriers like Varesh continued offering connections to Turkey and Armenia, according to the airport's website. Flights to Najaf, Iraq, and Dubai, UAE, remained scheduled as well. Also read: ‘Iran must stop arming Houthis in Yemen,’ say G7 nations ahead of UN General Assembly Bessent had vowed Monday to dismantle Iranian airlines entirely, warning other nations against cooperating with them: fueling, servicing, or selling tickets for Iranian flights could result in exclusion from the dollar-based financial system. These new restrictions are expected to further hinder Iranians' ability to travel internationally or return home. Iranian state media echoed the disruptions, with the Tasnim news agency reporting Tuesday that airports in Baghdad and Muscat would no longer accept Iranian flights, though routes like Istanbul would continue unaffected for now. Tasnim added that aviation officials were exploring rerouting Baghdad-bound flights to Najaf, a key pilgrimage destination for Iranians. In Iraq, government sources told AFP that Baghdad intends to comply with the US sanctions, despite no formal public announcement. This has alarmed Iraqi travel agents, particularly in Najaf, home to a major Shia shrine, where officials say most local travel businesses rely heavily on flight bookings to Iran. Agencies reported a surge of anxious clients inquiring about alternatives, including longer overland routes.

Iranian airlines have been forced to cancel key international flights to regional hubs like Baghdad and Muscat after new US aviation sanctions took effect, disrupting air travel across West Asia.

Iranian airlines cancel international flights as US aviation sanctions take effect

China on Tuesday (Sept. 22) opposed US sanctions targeting Iranian airlines, calling the measures "illegal" a day after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that American sanctions could shut down Iran's airlines worldwide.&nbsp;Bessent made the remarks in a televised interview with CNBC as the Trump administration seeks to increase economic pressure on Tehran. He said the restrictions could affect Iranian airlines within days.&nbsp;"All the Iranian airlines will be shut down around the world" in a matter of days under the weight of American sanctions, Bessent told CNBC.&nbsp;China criticised the planned measures and said it opposes unilateral sanctions that do not have a basis in international law or approval from the United Nations Security Council.&nbsp;"China consistently opposes illegal unilateral sanctions that lack a basis in international law or authorisation from the UN Security Council," foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told a news conference.&nbsp;The comments came ahead of President Donald Trump's summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, which is scheduled to begin on Thursday.&nbsp;The United States imposed sanctions this month on all remaining Iranian airlines that had not previously faced such penalties. The Treasury Department also targeted entities outside Iran that support the country's aviation sector.&nbsp;Bessent said foreign companies could also face consequences if they continue providing services to Iranian airlines.&nbsp;"If they land, you cannot provide them with fuel, you cannot provide them with landing services, you cannot sell them tickets, or you will be knocked out of the dollar system," Bessent said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/15-year-old-opens-fire-outside-high-school-in-turkey-11-students-injured-1790072210449">15-year-old opens fire outside high school in Turkey, 11 students injured</a><h2>US ramps up economic pressure on Iran</h2>Bessent had earlier said the United States would declare "economic D-Day" on Iran and pledged to put further financial pressure on Tehran.&nbsp;His latest comments came a day after he met Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng for economic discussions ahead of the Trump-Xi meeting.&nbsp;The US and Iran have been at war since late February, when US-Israeli strikes killed Iran's supreme leader and senior military officials at the beginning of a wider offensive.&nbsp;Iran responded by blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for energy shipments. The move contributed to a rise in global oil prices as the conflict spread across the Middle East.&nbsp;China remains a major economic partner and diplomatic supporter of Iran. Beijing has repeatedly opposed unilateral US sanctions against Tehran.&nbsp;The latest dispute over Iranian airlines comes as Washington and Beijing prepare for talks between Trump and Xi later this week.

Beijing has opposed the latest US restrictions on Iran’s aviation sector after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that Iranian airlines could be shut down worldwide.

China on Tuesday (Sept. 22) opposed US sanctions targeting Iranian airlines, calling the measures "illegal" a day after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that American sanctions could shut down Iran's airlines worldwide. Bessent made the remarks in a televised interview with CNBC as the Trump administration seeks to increase economic pressure on Tehran. He said the restrictions could affect Iranian airlines within days. "All the Iranian airlines will be shut down around the world" in a matter of days under the weight of American sanctions, Bessent told CNBC. China criticised the planned measures and said it opposes unilateral sanctions that do not have a basis in international law or approval from the United Nations Security Council. "China consistently opposes illegal unilateral sanctions that lack a basis in international law or authorisation from the UN Security Council," foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told a news conference. The comments came ahead of President Donald Trump's summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, which is scheduled to begin on Thursday. The United States imposed sanctions this month on all remaining Iranian airlines that had not previously faced such penalties. The Treasury Department also targeted entities outside Iran that support the country's aviation sector. Bessent said foreign companies could also face consequences if they continue providing services to Iranian airlines. "If they land, you cannot provide them with fuel, you cannot provide them with landing services, you cannot sell them tickets, or you will be knocked out of the dollar system," Bessent said. Also Read: 15-year-old opens fire outside high school in Turkey, 11 students injured US ramps up economic pressure on Iran Bessent had earlier said the United States would declare "economic D-Day" on Iran and pledged to put further financial pressure on Tehran. His latest comments came a day after he met Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng for economic discussions ahead of the Trump-Xi meeting. The US and Iran have been at war since late February, when US-Israeli strikes killed Iran's supreme leader and senior military officials at the beginning of a wider offensive. Iran responded by blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for energy shipments. The move contributed to a rise in global oil prices as the conflict spread across the Middle East. China remains a major economic partner and diplomatic supporter of Iran. Beijing has repeatedly opposed unilateral US sanctions against Tehran. The latest dispute over Iranian airlines comes as Washington and Beijing prepare for talks between Trump and Xi later this week.

Beijing has opposed the latest US restrictions on Iran’s aviation sector after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that Iranian airlines could be shut down worldwide.

China slams US sanctions on Iranian airlines as ‘illegal’ ahead of Trump-Xi summit

The newly imposed US sanctions are disrupting the ambitions of Iranian students seeking to study abroad by suspending international English proficiency exams within Iran. The Educational Testing Service (ETS), the US-based organisation administering the TOEFL exam, confirmed the suspension after the US Treasury halted the necessary licenses. According to Iranian media, alternative options like the Pearson Test of English and Duolingo online tests have also been suspended. While ETS noted on its website that Iranian students can still take tests in neighbouring countries, this alternative remains financially out of reach for many.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/iran-to-announce-new-restricted-zone-in-the-gulf-top-security-official-says-1788756621453/embed">https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/iran-to-announce-new-restricted-zone-in-the-gulf-top-security-official-says-1788756621453/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The testing freeze comes as part of Washington's “economic asphyxiation” strategy following broader geopolitical conflicts. Decades of sanctions, paired with recent economic volatility, have caused the Iranian rial to plunge to record lows around 2.2 million to the US dollar while annual inflation reached 89 per cent in late August.As reported by news agency AFP, students are left grappling with heavy financial and emotional strains Nikki, a 32-year-old pastry shop worker from Lahijan aiming to study psychology in Italy, recounted her dismay upon learning her TOEFL test was canceled. "When I found out that the exam had been cancelled... I did not leave my room for several days because I was crying.” She is currently seeking a loan to travel to Armenia for the test.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-severe-than-before-iran-warns-us-of-tougher-retaliation-after-three-tankers-destroyed-1788636991378">Iran retaliates after US destroys three tankers, warns of wider attacks</a>&nbsp;Leila, a 32-year-old Tehran resident who deferred a graduate arts program in Berlin, expressed "sheer despair" over the situation. "I have no plans to take the exam elsewhere; financially, I can't take it outside Iran, she noted that she now plans to pursue her studies domestically instead.&nbsp;On social media platforms like Telegram, thousands of students are calculating travel costs to destinations such as Armenia, Iraq, or Turkey, though many note that options like Istanbul are reserved "for the rich who can afford flights."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-is-small-potatoes-for-us-says-trump-as-he-defends-vance-1788601061216">Iran war is "small potatoes" for US, says Trump as he defends Vance</a>&nbsp;Iranian officials strongly criticised the sanctions. According to AFP, Science Minister Hossein Simaei Saraf condemned the restrictions as "'Stone Age' behaviour," arguing that the move demonstrates Washington's intent to target "every Iranian citizen in every field."

Sweeping US sanctions have suspended essential English proficiency exams like TOEFL in Iran, leaving students facing crippling travel costs or lost academic opportunities. Learn how expanding restrictions are impacting young Iranians hoping to study abroad. 

The newly imposed US sanctions are disrupting the ambitions of Iranian students seeking to study abroad by suspending international English proficiency exams within Iran. The Educational Testing Service (ETS), the US-based organisation administering the TOEFL exam, confirmed the suspension after the US Treasury halted the necessary licenses. According to Iranian media, alternative options like the Pearson Test of English and Duolingo online tests have also been suspended. While ETS noted on its website that Iranian students can still take tests in neighbouring countries, this alternative remains financially out of reach for many. https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/iran-to-announce-new-restricted-zone-in-the-gulf-top-security-official-says-1788756621453/embed The testing freeze comes as part of Washington's “economic asphyxiation” strategy following broader geopolitical conflicts. Decades of sanctions, paired with recent economic volatility, have caused the Iranian rial to plunge to record lows around 2.2 million to the US dollar while annual inflation reached 89 per cent in late August. As reported by news agency AFP, students are left grappling with heavy financial and emotional strains Nikki, a 32-year-old pastry shop worker from Lahijan aiming to study psychology in Italy, recounted her dismay upon learning her TOEFL test was canceled. "When I found out that the exam had been cancelled... I did not leave my room for several days because I was crying.” She is currently seeking a loan to travel to Armenia for the test. Also read: Iran retaliates after US destroys three tankers, warns of wider attacks Leila, a 32-year-old Tehran resident who deferred a graduate arts program in Berlin, expressed "sheer despair" over the situation. "I have no plans to take the exam elsewhere; financially, I can't take it outside Iran, she noted that she now plans to pursue her studies domestically instead. On social media platforms like Telegram, thousands of students are calculating travel costs to destinations such as Armenia, Iraq, or Turkey, though many note that options like Istanbul are reserved "for the rich who can afford flights." Also read: Iran war is "small potatoes" for US, says Trump as he defends Vance Iranian officials strongly criticised the sanctions. According to AFP, Science Minister Hossein Simaei Saraf condemned the restrictions as "'Stone Age' behaviour," arguing that the move demonstrates Washington's intent to target "every Iranian citizen in every field."

Sweeping US sanctions have suspended essential English proficiency exams like TOEFL in Iran, leaving students facing crippling travel costs or lost academic opportunities. Learn how expanding restrictions are impacting young Iranians hoping to study abroad.

US sanctions freeze TOEFL exams in Iran, crushing dreams of studying abroad

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged that US sanctions are putting significant pressure on the country’s economy, days after saying the latest measures from Washington would not achieve their intended goal. In an interview with Iranian state television late on Friday, Pezeshkian addressed claims that sanctions have little or no impact on Iran’s economy.&nbsp;"Some say sanctions have no effect at all; to those people, I really don't know what to say," Pezeshkian said. "We are in a war situation, and we must accept these wartime conditions," he added. The comments came days after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans aimed at intensifying economic pressure on Tehran. On Monday, Bessent described the strategy as ‘economic asphyxiation’ and warned that countries failing to cooperate with the US campaign could face serious consequences.&nbsp;The latest measures add to a sanctions framework imposed by the US and its allies since 2018. That year, then-US President Donald Trump withdrew from the international nuclear agreement with Tehran and subsequently restored sweeping sanctions against Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plays-mine-games-over-hormuz-iranian-mines-gone-but-is-the-strait-safe-1788002525970">US plays ‘mine games’ over Hormuz: Iranian mines gone, but is the strait safe?</a><h2>Iran trade hit by sanctions</h2>Pezeshkian said Iran’s imports and exports have declined by between 25% and 35% in recent months, which he attributed to the growing pressure on the country’s trade and the US naval blockade of Iranian ports. The economic strain has also raised concerns about fuel supplies and domestic petrol prices. Pezeshkian said petrol prices should be adjusted to reflect the decline in trade and proposed increasing the price of fuel under Iran’s highest consumption quota.&nbsp;"We should raise the price of the third-tier quota... For example, from 5,000 tomans to 10,000 tomans," he said. Iran uses multiple fuel-pricing tiers to determine how much consumers pay for petrol. The issue is politically sensitive because the country is a major oil producer and has traditionally provided heavily subsidised fuel, keeping petrol prices among the lowest in the world. Iranian Vice President Mohammad Jafar Ghaempanah said on Wednesday that the US blockade had made it difficult for Tehran to import enough petrol to compensate for a shortfall in domestic production.<h2>Pezeshkian changes tone on sanctions</h2>Pezeshkian’s latest remarks appear to mark a shift from his position earlier in the week. On Wednesday, the Iranian president had dismissed the impact of the latest US sanctions, saying they would not succeed in changing Iran’s position. "We will stand firm against economic pressures, as we have done so far and will continue to do," Pezeshkian told state media. His latest comments, however, highlight the mounting economic challenges facing Iran as sanctions, restrictions on trade and fuel-supply concerns put additional pressure on the country’s economy.

Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian admits US sanctions are hurting the economy as Iran faces falling trade, fuel shortages and pressure on petrol prices

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged that US sanctions are putting significant pressure on the country’s economy, days after saying the latest measures from Washington would not achieve their intended goal. In an interview with Iranian state television late on Friday, Pezeshkian addressed claims that sanctions have little or no impact on Iran’s economy. "Some say sanctions have no effect at all; to those people, I really don't know what to say," Pezeshkian said. "We are in a war situation, and we must accept these wartime conditions," he added. The comments came days after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans aimed at intensifying economic pressure on Tehran. On Monday, Bessent described the strategy as ‘economic asphyxiation’ and warned that countries failing to cooperate with the US campaign could face serious consequences. The latest measures add to a sanctions framework imposed by the US and its allies since 2018. That year, then-US President Donald Trump withdrew from the international nuclear agreement with Tehran and subsequently restored sweeping sanctions against Iran. Also Read: US plays ‘mine games’ over Hormuz: Iranian mines gone, but is the strait safe? Iran trade hit by sanctions Pezeshkian said Iran’s imports and exports have declined by between 25% and 35% in recent months, which he attributed to the growing pressure on the country’s trade and the US naval blockade of Iranian ports. The economic strain has also raised concerns about fuel supplies and domestic petrol prices. Pezeshkian said petrol prices should be adjusted to reflect the decline in trade and proposed increasing the price of fuel under Iran’s highest consumption quota. "We should raise the price of the third-tier quota... For example, from 5,000 tomans to 10,000 tomans," he said. Iran uses multiple fuel-pricing tiers to determine how much consumers pay for petrol. The issue is politically sensitive because the country is a major oil producer and has traditionally provided heavily subsidised fuel, keeping petrol prices among the lowest in the world. Iranian Vice President Mohammad Jafar Ghaempanah said on Wednesday that the US blockade had made it difficult for Tehran to import enough petrol to compensate for a shortfall in domestic production. Pezeshkian changes tone on sanctions Pezeshkian’s latest remarks appear to mark a shift from his position earlier in the week. On Wednesday, the Iranian president had dismissed the impact of the latest US sanctions, saying they would not succeed in changing Iran’s position. "We will stand firm against economic pressures, as we have done so far and will continue to do," Pezeshkian told state media. His latest comments, however, highlight the mounting economic challenges facing Iran as sanctions, restrictions on trade and fuel-supply concerns put additional pressure on the country’s economy.

Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian admits US sanctions are hurting Iran’s economy as trade falls and fuel shortages raise concerns over petrol prices

Did Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian admit that US sanctions affecting Tehran's economy? Here's what he said

Iran is facing fresh US sanctions aimed at putting more pressure on its already strained economy. In the southern port city of Bandar Abbas, shopkeepers say the impact is being felt directly through higher exchange rates, rising costs and pressure on everyday livelihoods.But Tehran says it can withstand the pressure, and is counting on major trading partners such as China and Russia to keep doing business with Iran. At the same time, the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the crisis, disrupting a vital global shipping route.For Iranian consumers, the sanctions story is ultimately about something much closer to home, the cost of living. Shopkeepers in Bandar Abbas say the fall in the value of the Iranian currency and restrictions on trade are making imported goods more expensive and putting pressure on household budgets.Qasem Shoja, a home appliance salesperson, said, "Under any circumstances, sanctions do inflict blows. The rise in the exchange rate affects life and livelihood, but ultimately, we are Iranians, and Iranians know how to bypass sanctions well."The latest US measures were announced on August 24 by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Washington says countries that continue trading with Iran could eventually risk losing access to the dollar-based financial system.But the new measures stopped short of the most severe options, and the US has not given a timeline or named countries that could be targeted.For businesses in Iran, that uncertainty matters. Importers face higher costs, while retailers have to decide how much of that increase can be passed on to customers already dealing with economic pressure.Omid Baghapour Darayaee, a clothing store owner, said, "In the way that we are under pressure, we are 100% distressed. The youth have many grievances against the officials who, really, really in my opinion, they are traitors. Why? Because they truly do not attend to the people's suffering. To me, being a responsible official means that the person should not rest. They should have iron shoes on their feet and be in the middle of the field, alongside the people."Iran, meanwhile, says sanctions will not force it into isolation. Officials have expressed confidence that major trading partners will resist Washington’s pressure, while shopkeepers say Iranians have learned to work around sanctions.And there is another major economic pressure point: the Strait of Hormuz. Most shipping through the Strait has been disrupted during the conflict.Iran and Oman said Tuesday they had discussed a joint temporary navigation corridor and a plan to clear mines from the Strait.Qasem Shoja also said, "The Strait of Hormuz is our home. It must remain closed unless we permit it, unless it is with our cooperation. We are the ones who, throughout these many years, have demonstrated Islamic clemency to the world and they took their oil for free, they took their goods; now they must interact with us."So, while the sanctions are designed as a tool of economic pressure on Tehran, their effects are also being felt by ordinary businesses and consumers, through currency volatility, trade disruptions and the rising cost of goods. And with Hormuz carrying such a large share of global energy shipments, what happens next could extend well beyond Iran’s borders.

For businesses in Iran, that uncertainty matters. Importers face higher costs, while retailers have to decide how much of that increase can be passed on to customers already dealing with economic pressure.

Iran is facing fresh US sanctions aimed at putting more pressure on its already strained economy. In the southern port city of Bandar Abbas, shopkeepers say the impact is being felt directly through higher exchange rates, rising costs and pressure on everyday livelihoods. But Tehran says it can withstand the pressure, and is counting on major trading partners such as China and Russia to keep doing business with Iran. At the same time, the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the crisis, disrupting a vital global shipping route. For Iranian consumers, the sanctions story is ultimately about something much closer to home, the cost of living. Shopkeepers in Bandar Abbas say the fall in the value of the Iranian currency and restrictions on trade are making imported goods more expensive and putting pressure on household budgets. Qasem Shoja, a home appliance salesperson, said, "Under any circumstances, sanctions do inflict blows. The rise in the exchange rate affects life and livelihood, but ultimately, we are Iranians, and Iranians know how to bypass sanctions well." The latest US measures were announced on August 24 by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Washington says countries that continue trading with Iran could eventually risk losing access to the dollar-based financial system. But the new measures stopped short of the most severe options, and the US has not given a timeline or named countries that could be targeted. For businesses in Iran, that uncertainty matters. Importers face higher costs, while retailers have to decide how much of that increase can be passed on to customers already dealing with economic pressure. Omid Baghapour Darayaee, a clothing store owner, said, "In the way that we are under pressure, we are 100% distressed. The youth have many grievances against the officials who, really, really in my opinion, they are traitors. Why? Because they truly do not attend to the people's suffering. To me, being a responsible official means that the person should not rest. They should have iron shoes on their feet and be in the middle of the field, alongside the people." Iran, meanwhile, says sanctions will not force it into isolation. Officials have expressed confidence that major trading partners will resist Washington’s pressure, while shopkeepers say Iranians have learned to work around sanctions. And there is another major economic pressure point: the Strait of Hormuz. Most shipping through the Strait has been disrupted during the conflict. Iran and Oman said Tuesday they had discussed a joint temporary navigation corridor and a plan to clear mines from the Strait. Qasem Shoja also said, "The Strait of Hormuz is our home. It must remain closed unless we permit it, unless it is with our cooperation. We are the ones who, throughout these many years, have demonstrated Islamic clemency to the world and they took their oil for free, they took their goods; now they must interact with us." So, while the sanctions are designed as a tool of economic pressure on Tehran, their effects are also being felt by ordinary businesses and consumers, through currency volatility, trade disruptions and the rising cost of goods. And with Hormuz carrying such a large share of global energy shipments, what happens next could extend well beyond Iran’s borders.

For businesses in Iran, that uncertainty matters. Importers face higher costs, while retailers have to decide how much of that increase can be passed on to customers already dealing with economic pressure.

Iran feels the heat of fresh sanctions, Tehran says can withstand pressure

Iran’s foreign ministry hit back at the US after its tariff war with Canada and compared it to the Trump administration’s “economic D-Day” against Iran, alleging that the US policy is actually about global bullying and disrespect for other countries’ sovereignty.&nbsp;“When a bully declares that every bank, company, port, and government must choose between obeying Washington’s whims or facing American vengeance, this is no longer just about Iran,” Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei wrote on X.&nbsp;“It is about annihilating the most foundational rules of international law and the UN Charter—namely, respect for the sovereign equality and self-determination of all states," he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-revoke-up-to-200-000-visas-in-largest-such-exercise-against-asylum-seekers-1787674058563">US to revoke up to 200,000 visas in largest such exercise against asylum seekers</a>&nbsp;Baghaei invoked the United States’ reignited trade war with Canada, saying it was a symptom of the same policy the US has taken with Iran.&nbsp;“No decent state that values its sovereignty and national interests will accept the normalization of such grand lawlessness and systemic bullying,” he wrote. “Canada is among those already learning that lesson,” Baghaei added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S.: “Economic D-Day.” Those who prefer to appear &#39;as obedient as shadows&#39; say: “This is fine.” But hold on. It is absolutely not fine. When a bully declares that every bank, company, port, and government must choose between obeying Washington’s whims or facing American… <a href="https://t.co/PT1myR0w3G">pic.twitter.com/PT1myR0w3G</a>&mdash; Esmaeil Baqaei (@IRIMFA_SPOX) <a href="https://x.com/IRIMFA_SPOX/status/2092273513197416937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>US removed all mines in Hormuz: Trump</h2>&nbsp;President Donald Trump said the US Navy has removed and detonated all mines from the international waters of the Strait of Hormuz, adding that Iran has been informed that any vessels laying new mines will be “immediately and systematically destroyed”.&nbsp;President Trump said that the US Navy has informed him that “all mines have been removed and/or detonated from within the International Waters of the Strait of Hormuz.”“Iran has been notified that any ship or boat placing new mines will be immediately and systematically destroyed,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-aircraft-lands-in-moscow-mystery-theories-swirl-as-kremlin-claims-it-has-no-idea-1787665191079">CIA Director John Ratcliffe on secret trip to Russia amid rumours over US military aircraft mystery landing in Moscow</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;“There is a Zero Tolerance policy on mine placement in full force and effect,” he added.&nbsp;Trump also claimed that the US was monitoring “every inch" of the waterway and the Pickaxe Mountain area “through Space Force” and added that a “Zero Tolerance Policy” against the replacement of mines was in effect.&nbsp;<h2>Iran, Oman discuss temporary corridor, mine-clearing in Hormuz</h2>&nbsp;Iran and Oman said Tuesday they have discussed establishing a temporary corridor through the Strait of Hormuz.In a joint statement published after Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi’s visit to meet his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, the two countries said that the ministers discussed a phased framework that could provide a practical and implementable basis for moving forward.‎‎This included “the establishment of a joint temporary navigational corridor through the Strait of Hormuz and an agreement to implement a joint project to clear the Strait of mines,” said the statement.&nbsp;President Trump had claimed earlier on Tuesday that the waterway had been completely de-mined.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-tried-to-assassinate-one-of-my-sons-says-benjamin-netanyahu-justifies-security-cover-1787600874336">‘Iran tried to assassinate one of my sons,’ says Benjamin Netanyahu, justifies security cover</a>&nbsp;Technical negotiations between Iran and Oman would continue with a view to agreeing on a permanent navigational corridor and future administration of the Strait, the joint statement said.&nbsp;A mechanism for information-sharing, traffic management, and the provision of relevant navigational and security services will also be worked out.The two countries, which sit on either side of the strait, have been negotiating over the future of the chokepoint for weeks.

President Donald Trump said the US Navy has removed and detonated all mines from the international waters of the Strait of Hormuz, adding that Iran has been informed that any vessels laying new mines will be immediately and systematically destroyed.

Iran’s foreign ministry hit back at the US after its tariff war with Canada and compared it to the Trump administration’s “economic D-Day” against Iran, alleging that the US policy is actually about global bullying and disrespect for other countries’ sovereignty. “When a bully declares that every bank, company, port, and government must choose between obeying Washington’s whims or facing American vengeance, this is no longer just about Iran,” Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei wrote on X. “It is about annihilating the most foundational rules of international law and the UN Charter—namely, respect for the sovereign equality and self-determination of all states," he added. Also Read: US to revoke up to 200,000 visas in largest such exercise against asylum seekers Baghaei invoked the United States’ reignited trade war with Canada, saying it was a symptom of the same policy the US has taken with Iran. “No decent state that values its sovereignty and national interests will accept the normalization of such grand lawlessness and systemic bullying,” he wrote. “Canada is among those already learning that lesson,” Baghaei added.

President Donald Trump said the US Navy has removed and detonated all mines from the international waters of the Strait of Hormuz, adding that Iran has been informed that any vessels laying new mines will be immediately and systematically destroyed.

‘Global bullying, disrespect for sovereignty’: Iran cites US trade war with Canada as symptom of same policy

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Monday (August 24) unveiled plans for the ‘economic asphyxiation’ of Iran, widening Washington's secondary sanctions campaign and warning countries that refuse to participate of potential consequences. Bessent's remarks came nearly six months into the war with Tehran, which has reached a stalemate amid stalled peace negotiations and Iran's restrictions on much of the traffic through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;"Around the globe, our objective is to sever every economic lifeline that sustains this tyrannical regime until Tehran stands alone," Bessent told a press conference on Monday. “We are going to hold everyone accountable, and this is economic asphyxiation of this regime.” Scott Bessent said countries that choose not to join the US sanctions campaign would "share in the isolation" of Iran. He also said President Trump was contacting world leaders to urge them to halt their dealings with Tehran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-discovers-7-5-trillion-cubic-feet-of-natural-gas-amid-war-and-sanctions-gravitas-1787590491328">Iran discovers 7.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas amid war and sanctions | Gravitas</a>&nbsp;The Treasury Department said on Monday (August 24) it had 'issued determinations against five critical sectors, digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping, that the Iranian regime uses to try to prop up its failing economy." Scott Bessent also warned that any entity "that facilitates money laundering on behalf of Iran will be removed from the US dollar system."&nbsp;Asked whether Chinese banks doing business with Iran could face sanctions, Scott Bessent responded that “no one is above the reach of US sanctions.” Earlier, Bessent described the escalating campaign against Tehran as an ‘economic D-Day’ in an opinion piece published by the Financial Times. The United States and Israel launched the Middle East war with a major wave of strikes against Iran on February 28, 2026, prompting Iranian retaliation across the region.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | On US announces &#39;Operation Economic Outcast&#39; against Iran, Former Union Minister MJ Akbar says, &quot;The sanctions regime against Iran is a very old story. America has tried to do it very often... But the past has proved that any sanctions regime is very porous...… <a href="https://t.co/HUZBKsSAoW">pic.twitter.com/HUZBKsSAoW</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2092238900224012296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On US announces 'Operation Economic Outcast' against Iran, former Union Minister MJ Akbar said, "The sanctions regime against Iran is a very old story. America has tried to do it very often. But the past has proved that any sanctions regime is very porous. The most important story of the latest American sanctions regime has come not from Washington, but from Beijing. President Xi is going to be in Washington soon and yet, the moment the first murmur of sanctions emerged from America, China's spokesman said very clearly that China was not going to honour any American sanctions, then you can assume that its effectiveness will be extremely limited. I doubt whether Russia will join an American sanctions regime. As for the rest, Iran has shown the capacity to create a self-reliant economy. Iran has the capacity to meet its own needs to a large extent. At best, these sanctions will end up being a political bluster rather than an effective economic punishment."

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent vowed to cripple Iran’s economy as he outlined a major new pressure campaign against Tehran, nearly six months into a war that has settled into a stalemate

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Monday (August 24) unveiled plans for the ‘economic asphyxiation’ of Iran, widening Washington's secondary sanctions campaign and warning countries that refuse to participate of potential consequences. Bessent's remarks came nearly six months into the war with Tehran, which has reached a stalemate amid stalled peace negotiations and Iran's restrictions on much of the traffic through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. "Around the globe, our objective is to sever every economic lifeline that sustains this tyrannical regime until Tehran stands alone," Bessent told a press conference on Monday. “We are going to hold everyone accountable, and this is economic asphyxiation of this regime.” Scott Bessent said countries that choose not to join the US sanctions campaign would "share in the isolation" of Iran. He also said President Trump was contacting world leaders to urge them to halt their dealings with Tehran. Also Read: Iran discovers 7.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas amid war and sanctions | Gravitas The Treasury Department said on Monday (August 24) it had 'issued determinations against five critical sectors, digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping, that the Iranian regime uses to try to prop up its failing economy." Scott Bessent also warned that any entity "that facilitates money laundering on behalf of Iran will be removed from the US dollar system." Asked whether Chinese banks doing business with Iran could face sanctions, Scott Bessent responded that “no one is above the reach of US sanctions.” Earlier, Bessent described the escalating campaign against Tehran as an ‘economic D-Day’ in an opinion piece published by the Financial Times. The United States and Israel launched the Middle East war with a major wave of strikes against Iran on February 28, 2026, prompting Iranian retaliation across the region.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent vowed to cripple Iran’s economy as he outlined a major new pressure campaign against Tehran, nearly six months into a war that has settled into a stalemate

'We will block every source of revenue for Iran': Scott Bessent announces new sanctions after warning of ‘economic D-Day’ for Tehran

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 Donald Trump says Washington is ready for another round of negotiations with Iran, even as the US imposed fresh sanctions targeting key Iranian financial networks. Reports suggest new talks could take place in Switzerland, while Qatar, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Oman continue diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation in the region. Meanwhile, Iran has rejected claims that it requested negotiations and has accused the US of violating previous understandings through renewed military action.


Trump agrees to fresh iran talks as us imposes new sanctions amid rising middle east tensions

The United States on Tuesday announced a fresh round of sanctions on shadow banking and shadow fleets as it targeted an Iranian foreign currency exchange house and front companies overseeing transactions on behalf of Iranian banks, maintaining pressure on Tehran for a peace deal.&nbsp;The US Treasury Department imposed fresh sanctions on the Iran-based Amin Exchange, also known as Ebrahimi and Associates Partnership Company, which it says has a widespread network of front companies spanning multiple jurisdictions, including in the United Arab Emirates, Turkey and Hong Kong.&nbsp;The US also blocked 19 ‘shadow fleet’ vessels involved in shipping Iranian petroleum and petrochemicals to foreign customers.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/standard-chartered-plans-to-cut-over-7000-jobs-in-ai-push-will-replace-lower-value-human-capital-1779200778582">Standard Chartered plans to cut over 7,000 jobs in AI push, will replace ‘lower-value human capital’</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The United States is hardly alone in facing the scourge of terrorism, especially from Iran. Yet, too often, we seem to be alone in our resolve to thwart it. If we are serious about “no money for terror,” then there must also be “no room for excuses.” At the No Money for Terror… <a href="https://t.co/PqpU95mL3E">pic.twitter.com/PqpU95mL3E</a>&mdash; Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent (@SecScottBessent) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecScottBessent/status/2056751950121624010?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;The Treasury Department said on Tuesday that the Iranian exchange houses facilitate billions of dollars in foreign currency transactions a year, enabling the government to evade sanctions and access the international financial system. It added that the front companies oversee hundreds of millions of dollars in transactions on behalf of Iranian banks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jahangir-khan-pulls-out-of-falta-contest-2-days-before-repoll-trinamool-says-succumbed-to-pressure-1779195775695">‘Pushpa bows’: Jahangir Khan pulls out of Falta contest 2 days before repoll; Trinamool says ‘succumbed to pressure’</a>&nbsp;“Iran’s shadow banking system facilitates the illicit transfer of funding for terrorist purposes,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a release.“As Treasury systematically dismantles Tehran’s shadow banking system and shadow fleet under Economic Fury, financial institutions must be alert to how the regime manipulates the international financial system to wreak havoc.”&nbsp;<h2>Treasury dept designates several companies, vessels</h2>&nbsp;The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) also designated several companies it described as front entities supporting Amin Exchange’s operations. The firms include China-based Ningbo Jiarui Trading Co., Ltd., Hong Kong-based Starshine Petrochemical Corporation Limited, Hong Kong-based Vigorous Trading Limited, UAE-based Alieen Goods Wholesalers LLC, UAE-based Bold Trading FZE, UAE-based Materium Group FZE, Hong Kong-based Bestfortuna Company Limited, and Hong Kong-based Cheng Pan Co., Limited.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-media-and-democrats-would-spin-even-iranian-surrender-as-us-defeat-1779123203379">Trump says media and Democrats would spin even Iranian surrender as US defeat</a>&nbsp;The US also designated 19 shadow fleet vessels for transporting Iranian-origin oil, petroleum products and petrochemicals. The vessels include the Barbados-flagged liquefied petroleum gas tanker Great Sail, the Palau-flagged products tanker Ocean Wave, and the Panama-flagged chemical/oil tanker Swift Falcon.&nbsp;Under US sanctions rules, any assets linked to these entities within US jurisdiction will be frozen, while American individuals and companies are prohibited from conducting business with them.

The Treasury Department said the Iranian exchange houses facilitate billions of dollars in foreign currency transactions a year, enabling Tehran to evade sanctions and access international financial system, while the front companies oversee hundreds of millions of dollars in transactions.

The United States on Tuesday announced a fresh round of sanctions on shadow banking and shadow fleets as it targeted an Iranian foreign currency exchange house and front companies overseeing transactions on behalf of Iranian banks, maintaining pressure on Tehran for a peace deal. The US Treasury Department imposed fresh sanctions on the Iran-based Amin Exchange, also known as Ebrahimi and Associates Partnership Company, which it says has a widespread network of front companies spanning multiple jurisdictions, including in the United Arab Emirates, Turkey and Hong Kong. The US also blocked 19 ‘shadow fleet’ vessels involved in shipping Iranian petroleum and petrochemicals to foreign customers. Also Read: Standard Chartered plans to cut over 7,000 jobs in AI push, will replace ‘lower-value human capital’

The Treasury Department said the Iranian exchange houses facilitate billions of dollars in foreign currency transactions a year, enabling Tehran to evade sanctions and access international financial system, while the front companies oversee hundreds of millions of dollars in transactions.

US imposes fresh sanctions on Iranian exchange houses, front companies and shadow fleet vessels

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Monday (Apr 27) predicted a “gasoline shortage” in Iran as the US continues the blockade of Iranian ports. He said that the “pumping will soon collapse” as Iran’s oil industry suffers a blow from the US blockade. Bessant also unleashed an “Economic Fury”, warning of US sanctions on businesses working with Iranian airlines in a move to ramp up economic pressure on Tehran amid conflict. The American forces have been ordering ships coming to and from Iranian ports to return or turn back as tensions over the Strait of Hormuz continue to rise.“While the surviving IRGC Leaders are trapped like drowning rats in a sewage pipe, Iran’s creaking oil industry is starting to shut in production thanks to the U.S. BLOCKADE,” he said.“Pumping will soon collapse,” Bessent warned. “GASOLINE SHORTAGES IN IRAN NEXT!”<h2>US sanctions on Aviation</h2>Bessent said that doing business with the sanctioned airlines would risk exposure to US sanctions. He added that Foreign governments should ensure that companies in their countries do not provide services to the Iranian airlines.&nbsp;“Doing business with sanctioned Iranian airlines risks exposure to U.S. sanctions. &nbsp;Foreign governments should take all actions necessary to ensure that companies in their jurisdictions do not provide services to those aircraft, including the provision of jet fuel, catering, landing fees or maintenance,” Bessent wrote in a post on X.“Under Economic Fury, the US Treasury will impose maximum pressure on Iran and will not hesitate to act against any third parties that facilitate or conduct business with Iranian entities,” he added.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.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warns of sweeping US sanctions under “Economic Fury,” targeting firms linked to Iranian airlines, as Washington ramps up pressure and signals looming fuel shortages in Iran.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Monday (Apr 27) predicted a “gasoline shortage” in Iran as the US continues the blockade of Iranian ports. He said that the “pumping will soon collapse” as Iran’s oil industry suffers a blow from the US blockade. Bessant also unleashed an “Economic Fury”, warning of US sanctions on businesses working with Iranian airlines in a move to ramp up economic pressure on Tehran amid conflict. The American forces have been ordering ships coming to and from Iranian ports to return or turn back as tensions over the Strait of Hormuz continue to rise. “While the surviving IRGC Leaders are trapped like drowning rats in a sewage pipe, Iran’s creaking oil industry is starting to shut in production thanks to the U.S. BLOCKADE,” he said. “Pumping will soon collapse,” Bessent warned. “GASOLINE SHORTAGES IN IRAN NEXT!” US sanctions on Aviation Bessent said that doing business with the sanctioned airlines would risk exposure to US sanctions. He added that Foreign governments should ensure that companies in their countries do not provide services to the Iranian airlines. “Doing business with sanctioned Iranian airlines risks exposure to U.S. sanctions. Foreign governments should take all actions necessary to ensure that companies in their jurisdictions do not provide services to those aircraft, including the provision of jet fuel, catering, landing fees or maintenance,” Bessent wrote in a post on X. “Under Economic Fury, the US Treasury will impose maximum pressure on Iran and will not hesitate to act against any third parties that facilitate or conduct business with Iranian entities,” he added. 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.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warns of sweeping US sanctions under “Economic Fury,” targeting firms linked to Iranian airlines, as Washington ramps up pressure and signals looming fuel shortages in Iran.

‘Economic Fury’: Scott Bessent predicts ‘gasoline shortages’ in Iran, threatens US sanctions on aviation firms

The United States has imposed sanctions on at least half a dozen Indian companies for allegedly trading with Iranian petroleum and petrochemicals. The US Department of State on Wednesday (July 30) announced sanctions against multiple firms - including several from India. Those from India include Kanchan Polymers, Alchemical Solutions Pvt Ltd, Ramniklal S Gosalia and Company, Jupiter Dye Chem Pvt Ltd, Global Industrial Chemicals Ltd, and Persistent Petrochem Pvt Ltd. The US Department of State alleged that the Indian firms knowingly engaged in “significant transactions” for the purchase and marketing of Iranian petroleum products, violating American sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;In response, Iran said that the United States is weaponising the economy and using sanctions as tool to “dictate its will on independent nations.” In a post on X by Iranian Embassy in India, it called the US' action as “coercive,” “discriminatory” and “modern form of economic imperialism”, adding that it violates the principles of international law. “Resisting such policies is a stand for a more powerful emerging non Western-led multilateral world order and a stronger Global South,” it added.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The United States continues to weaponize the economy and use <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sanctions?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sanctions</a> as tools to dictate its will on independent nations such as Iran and India and impede their growth and development. These coercive discriminatory actions violate the principles of international law and…&mdash; Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iran_in_India/status/1950803842201010610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Under the sanctions, all assets of these companies in the United States or controlled by US persons are now frozen. American individuals and companies are prohibited from conducting business with the sanctioned entities. The action also blocks any entity that is 50% or more owned by the sanctioned companies. The sanctions also targeted companies in Turkey, the UAE, China, and Indonesia.

<h2>Indian companies and allegations they face?</h2>The sanctioned Indian companies include some of the country’s major petrochemical traders. The sanctioned companies can petition for removal from the US Treasury’s Specially Designated Nationals list. The US government says the “ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behaviour. Companies wishing to contest their designation can submit petitions to the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, according to a fact sheet shared by the US Department of State.&nbsp;<ul><li>Alchemical Solutions Private Limited faces the largest allegations, accused of importing Iranian petrochemical products worth over USD 84 million between January and December 2024.&nbsp;</li><li>Global Industrial Chemicals Limited is alleged to have purchased Iranian petrochemicals, including methanol, valued at over $51 million between July 2024 and January 2025.</li><li>Jupiter Dye Chem Private Limited reportedly imported Iranian products, including toluene worth over $49 million, during the same period.</li><li>Ramniklal S Gosalia and Company is accused of purchasing Iranian petrochemicals worth over $22 million, including methanol and toluene.</li><li>Persistent Petrochem Private Limited allegedly imported approximately $14 million worth of Iranian petrochemicals, particularly methanol, between October and December 2024.&nbsp;</li><li>Kanchan Polymers allegedly imported and purchased over $1.3M worth of Iranian-origin petrochemical products, including polyethylene, from Tanasis trading.</li></ul><h2>US sanctions and tariffs on India</h2>The sanctions come as the US continues its “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, targeting what it calls the country’s “shadow fleet” of vessels and intermediary companies that help transport Iranian oil and petrochemicals globally. US officials have said that Iran uses revenue from oil and petrochemical exports to fund what Washington describes as “destabilising activities” in the West Asia and support for terrorist groups. It also comes after the Donald Trump administration announced 25 percent tariffs “plus a penalty” for India. Trump also announced an ‘additional penalty’ on India for it for its oil and arms purchases from Russia. While acknowledging India as a “friend,” Trump criticised the country for maintaining excessively high tariffs and what he described as “obnoxious” non-monetary trade barriers, which he claimed have hindered US–India trade for years. He also condemned India’s continued purchase of military equipment and energy from Russia, calling it inappropriate amid ongoing global efforts to halt Russia’s war in Ukraine. In response, India’s government stated it is reviewing the decision and reaffirmed its commitment to negotiating a fair, balanced trade agreement that protects domestic interests. Meanwhile, India has historically maintained trade relationships with Iran, though it has reduced Iranian oil imports significantly since 2019 following previous US sanctions.

The US has sanctioned six Indian firms for allegedly trading Iranian petroleum products, violating US sanctions. Their US assets are frozen, and American entities are barred from dealing with them. Firms in Turkey, the UAE, China, and Indonesia were also targeted.

The United States has imposed sanctions on at least half a dozen Indian companies for allegedly trading with Iranian petroleum and petrochemicals. The US Department of State on Wednesday (July 30) announced sanctions against multiple firms - including several from India. Those from India include Kanchan Polymers, Alchemical Solutions Pvt Ltd, Ramniklal S Gosalia and Company, Jupiter Dye Chem Pvt Ltd, Global Industrial Chemicals Ltd, and Persistent Petrochem Pvt Ltd. The US Department of State alleged that the Indian firms knowingly engaged in “significant transactions” for the purchase and marketing of Iranian petroleum products, violating American sanctions on Iran. In response, Iran said that the United States is weaponising the economy and using sanctions as tool to “dictate its will on independent nations.” In a post on X by Iranian Embassy in India, it called the US' action as “coercive,” “discriminatory” and “modern form of economic imperialism”, adding that it violates the principles of international law. “Resisting such policies is a stand for a more powerful emerging non Western-led multilateral world order and a stronger Global South,” it added.

The US has sanctioned six Indian firms for allegedly trading Iranian petroleum products, violating US sanctions. Their US assets are frozen, and American entities are barred from dealing with them. Firms in Turkey, the UAE, China, and Indonesia were also targeted.

'Not to punish...': US sanctions 6 Indian companies over oil trade with Iran hours after 25% tariff imposition; Tehran calls it 'economic imperialism'

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jul 7) said that he would like to lift the US sanctions imposed on Iran but added that this could only be done "at the right time". The POTUS also revealed that Washington was scheduled to hold talks with Tehran, claiming, "they want to talk". Trump made the statement as he hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a dinner at the White House. When asked about the probability of the US carrying out another strike on Iran, Trump did not dismiss the possibility but said, "We're not going to have to do that".<h2>Impending Iran-US talks</h2>According to Donald Trump, Iran has "requested a meeting" as "they want to talk". The POTUS said that it'll be "good" if a deal can be signed as a result of the talks. “If we can put something down on paper, that will be fine. It'll be good," he said, adding, "We'll see what happens." Meanwhile, Trump's Middle East envoy has said that the meeting could happen in the "next week or so".When asked if there was something that could make him "have the desire" to carry out fresh strikes on Iran, Trump coyly replied, "we're not going to have to do that. I can't imagine wanting to do that". However, it must be noted that he did not dismiss the possibility that the US could strike Iran in the future. "I can't imagine them wanting to do that. They want to meet...they want to work something out," he added, as reported by the Anadolu news agency.<h2>Will Trump lift Iran sanctions?</h2>When asked about US-imposed sanctions on Tehran, Trump said that Iran was "very different now" than it was two weeks ago – before the US carried out "Operation Midnight Hammer", striking Iranian nuclear sites. "I hope it's over. Yeah, I think Iran wants to meet. I think they want to make peace, and I'm all for it," he added.Referring to the US lifting Syrian sanctions, he said that the decision was taken at the request of many countries in the Middle East, adding that the US wanted "to give them (Syria) a chance". He then said, similarly, he would like to remove the tough "biting" sanctions the US has imposed on Iran, but "at the right time". "I would love to be able to, at the right time, take those sanctions off (Iran), give them a chance at rebuilding, because I'd like to see Iran build itself back up in a peaceful manner and not going around saying, 'Death to America,' 'Death to the USA,' 'Death to Israel,' as they were doing," he said.&nbsp;

When asked about the probability of the US carrying out another strike on Iran, Trump did not dismiss the possibility but said, "We're not going to have to do that".

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jul 7) said that he would like to lift the US sanctions imposed on Iran but added that this could only be done "at the right time". The POTUS also revealed that Washington was scheduled to hold talks with Tehran, claiming, "they want to talk". Trump made the statement as he hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a dinner at the White House. When asked about the probability of the US carrying out another strike on Iran, Trump did not dismiss the possibility but said, "We're not going to have to do that". Impending Iran-US talks According to Donald Trump, Iran has "requested a meeting" as "they want to talk". The POTUS said that it'll be "good" if a deal can be signed as a result of the talks. “If we can put something down on paper, that will be fine. It'll be good," he said, adding, "We'll see what happens." Meanwhile, Trump's Middle East envoy has said that the meeting could happen in the "next week or so". When asked if there was something that could make him "have the desire" to carry out fresh strikes on Iran, Trump coyly replied, "we're not going to have to do that. I can't imagine wanting to do that". However, it must be noted that he did not dismiss the possibility that the US could strike Iran in the future. "I can't imagine them wanting to do that. They want to meet...they want to work something out," he added, as reported by the Anadolu news agency. Will Trump lift Iran sanctions? When asked about US-imposed sanctions on Tehran, Trump said that Iran was "very different now" than it was two weeks ago – before the US carried out "Operation Midnight Hammer", striking Iranian nuclear sites. "I hope it's over. Yeah, I think Iran wants to meet. I think they want to make peace, and I'm all for it," he added. Referring to the US lifting Syrian sanctions, he said that the decision was taken at the request of many countries in the Middle East, adding that the US wanted "to give them (Syria) a chance". He then said, similarly, he would like to remove the tough "biting" sanctions the US has imposed on Iran, but "at the right time". "I would love to be able to, at the right time, take those sanctions off (Iran), give them a chance at rebuilding, because I'd like to see Iran build itself back up in a peaceful manner and not going around saying, 'Death to America,' 'Death to the USA,' 'Death to Israel,' as they were doing," he said.

When asked about the probability of the US carrying out another strike on Iran, Trump did not dismiss the possibility but said, "We're not going to have to do that".

Trump open to lifting Iran sanctions 'at the right time,' doesn't rule out future strikes

The United States has announced a new round of sanctions targeting entities and individuals linked to Iran’s defence industry and Yemen’s Houthi group.&nbsp;&nbsp;The measures, unveiled by the Trump administration on Friday, are aimed at disrupting Tehran’s access to sensitive defence-related machinery and cracking down on illicit oil trading networks that support the Houthis.&nbsp;According to a statement from the US Treasury Department, the sanctions target eight entities, one individual, and one vessel allegedly involved in supplying components used in Iran’s ballistic missile and drone programmes.&nbsp;&nbsp;A separate action was also taken against four individuals, 12 companies, and two vessels tied to the Houthis’ alleged oil smuggling operations.<h2>Sanctions&nbsp;on Iran’s defence procurement</h2>As per Reuters, the US Treasury accused the sanctioned actors of assisting Iran in acquiring dual-use machinery and components that support the regime’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), missile, and asymmetric weapons capabilities.&nbsp;“The United States remains resolved to disrupt any effort by Iran to procure the sensitive, dual-use technology, components, and machinery that underpin the regime’s ballistic missile, unmanned aerial vehicle, and asymmetric weapons programs,” US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in the statement, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;As per Reuters, the department identified two Hong Kong-based shipping firms, Unico Shipping Co Ltd and Athena Shipping Co Ltd, among the blacklisted entities. These companies allegedly facilitated the transportation of machinery for Iran’s defence industry.&nbsp;The latest sanctions are part of Washington’s broader effort to limit Iran’s weapons proliferation capacity, which the US argues continues to pose a direct threat to regional stability, particularly in the Middle East.<h2>Action against Houthi oil smuggling network</h2>In a separate statement, the Treasury also announced counterterrorism-related sanctions on what it called a network of individuals and companies engaged in illicit oil trading and shipping operations on behalf of Yemen’s Houthi rebels.&nbsp;As reported by Reuters, the sanctions target four individuals, 12 entities, and two vessels accused of importing oil and other goods to finance the Houthis’ war effort. The US government has previously accused the Iran-aligned group of using oil smuggling to fund its operations, including attacks on commercial shipping routes in the Red Sea.&nbsp;While the Houthis claim to be resisting foreign intervention in Yemen, the US and its allies have blamed the group for repeated missile and drone strikes targeting international shipping and regional adversaries, particularly Saudi Arabia and Israel.<h2>Broader geopolitical context</h2>The new sanctions come at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Iran continuing to back armed proxies across the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;The US has ramped up its enforcement efforts in recent months as part of a wider campaign to contain Iran’s regional influence and limit its ability to finance hostile activities through third-party networks.&nbsp;The sanctions also reflect the Trump administration’s continued policy of economic pressure on Iran, with a particular focus on curbing its missile and drone development programmes.&nbsp;&nbsp;As per Reuters, Washington’s approach has involved targeting supply chains and logistics firms, especially those operating in Asia and the Gulf to sever Iran’s access to critical manufacturing inputs.<h2>What the sanctions mean?</h2>Entities and individuals named in the sanctions will have their assets frozen within US jurisdiction, and US persons are generally barred from conducting transactions with them.&nbsp;&nbsp;The move is also likely to complicate international shipping and trade for the blacklisted companies, particularly those operating in Hong Kong and the Middle East.&nbsp;The US has reiterated that it will continue to use financial tools to degrade the capabilities of actors that threaten international peace, whether through illicit defence procurement or oil smuggling.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies)&nbsp;

Amid rising regional tensions, the Trump administration targets Iran-linked defence firms and a Houthi oil smuggling network with new sanctions aimed at curbing missile proliferation and illicit financing.

The United States has announced a new round of sanctions targeting entities and individuals linked to Iran’s defence industry and Yemen’s Houthi group. The measures, unveiled by the Trump administration on Friday, are aimed at disrupting Tehran’s access to sensitive defence-related machinery and cracking down on illicit oil trading networks that support the Houthis. According to a statement from the US Treasury Department, the sanctions target eight entities, one individual, and one vessel allegedly involved in supplying components used in Iran’s ballistic missile and drone programmes. A separate action was also taken against four individuals, 12 companies, and two vessels tied to the Houthis’ alleged oil smuggling operations. Sanctions on Iran’s defence procurement As per Reuters, the US Treasury accused the sanctioned actors of assisting Iran in acquiring dual-use machinery and components that support the regime’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), missile, and asymmetric weapons capabilities. “The United States remains resolved to disrupt any effort by Iran to procure the sensitive, dual-use technology, components, and machinery that underpin the regime’s ballistic missile, unmanned aerial vehicle, and asymmetric weapons programs,” US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in the statement, as quoted by Reuters. As per Reuters, the department identified two Hong Kong-based shipping firms, Unico Shipping Co Ltd and Athena Shipping Co Ltd, among the blacklisted entities. These companies allegedly facilitated the transportation of machinery for Iran’s defence industry. The latest sanctions are part of Washington’s broader effort to limit Iran’s weapons proliferation capacity, which the US argues continues to pose a direct threat to regional stability, particularly in the Middle East. Action against Houthi oil smuggling network In a separate statement, the Treasury also announced counterterrorism-related sanctions on what it called a network of individuals and companies engaged in illicit oil trading and shipping operations on behalf of Yemen’s Houthi rebels. As reported by Reuters, the sanctions target four individuals, 12 entities, and two vessels accused of importing oil and other goods to finance the Houthis’ war effort. The US government has previously accused the Iran-aligned group of using oil smuggling to fund its operations, including attacks on commercial shipping routes in the Red Sea. While the Houthis claim to be resisting foreign intervention in Yemen, the US and its allies have blamed the group for repeated missile and drone strikes targeting international shipping and regional adversaries, particularly Saudi Arabia and Israel. Broader geopolitical context The new sanctions come at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Iran continuing to back armed proxies across the region. The US has ramped up its enforcement efforts in recent months as part of a wider campaign to contain Iran’s regional influence and limit its ability to finance hostile activities through third-party networks. The sanctions also reflect the Trump administration’s continued policy of economic pressure on Iran, with a particular focus on curbing its missile and drone development programmes. As per Reuters, Washington’s approach has involved targeting supply chains and logistics firms, especially those operating in Asia and the Gulf to sever Iran’s access to critical manufacturing inputs. What the sanctions mean? Entities and individuals named in the sanctions will have their assets frozen within US jurisdiction, and US persons are generally barred from conducting transactions with them. The move is also likely to complicate international shipping and trade for the blacklisted companies, particularly those operating in Hong Kong and the Middle East. The US has reiterated that it will continue to use financial tools to degrade the capabilities of actors that threaten international peace, whether through illicit defence procurement or oil smuggling. (With inputs from the agencies)

The US has imposed fresh sanctions on Iran’s defence suppliers and Houthi oil smugglers to disrupt missile development and illicit financing in the Middle East.

US imposes fresh sanctions on Iran-linked defence firms and Houthi oil network

In reaction to "continuing nuclear escalations," the United States on Thursday imposed further sanctions on Iran, according to a statement from U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. "Over the past month, Iran has announced steps to further expand its nuclear program in ways that have no credible peaceful purpose," Blinken stated.

US issues fresh sanctions against Iran over nuclear escalations

Amid negotiations with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-allow-negotiations-for-the-sake-of-it-says-president-elect-raisi-on-iran-nuclear-talks-392965">Iran</a> on the nuclear deal in Vienna, German foreign minister Heiko Maas said there was a good chance the 2015 deal can be revived.

Iran's state-run television channel quoted the presidential chief of staff Mahmoud Vaezi as saying that the US has agreed to "remove all insurance, oil and shipping sanctions imposed by the former president Donald Trump."

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-powers-must-wake-up-on-iran-nuke-deal-israel-392834/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"About 1,040 Trump-era sanctions will be lifted under the agreement. It was also agreed to lift some sanctions on individuals and members of the supreme leader's inner circle," Vaezi told the state-run channel.

However, US officials said there were still details to be hammered out even as Joe Biden's administration seeks to restore the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/talks-to-revive-iran-nuclear-agreement-closer-to-a-deal-eu-official-392810">nuclear deal</a>.

Heiko Maas said negotiations are going forward in a "step by step" direction in every round of negotiation. The German foreign minister said there was a "good chance to conclude them in the foreseeable future".

The US government under ex-president Trump had pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal citing violations as it imposed harsh sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

However, Israel's new government under Prime Minister&nbsp;Naftali Bennett has vowed it would object to the revival of the deal between world powers and Iran.

Israel's foreign minister Yair Lapid had said that the country "will do whatever it takes to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear bomb".

Meanwhile, Iran's state television said the country had allegedly foiled a sabotage attack on a building belonging to the country's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-detects-technical-fault-in-bushehr-nuclear-power-plant-392978">atomic energy agency</a> even as the government warned the United States that seizure of 33 websites run by Iran-linked media was "not constructive" for ongoing nuclear talks.

The US Justice Department had earlier declared that the 33 Iranian government-controlled media websites violated sanctions which included three websites belonging to Iraqi group Kataeb Hezbollah.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid negotiations with Iran on the nuclear deal in Vienna, German foreign minister Heiko Maas said there was a good chance the 2015 deal can be revived. Iran's state-run television channel quoted the presidential chief of staff Mahmoud Vaezi as saying that the US has agreed to "remove all insurance, oil and shipping sanctions imposed by the former president Donald Trump.

Amid negotiations with Iran on the nuclear deal in Vienna, German foreign minister Heiko Maas said there was a good chance the 2015 deal can be revived. Iran's state-run television channel quoted the presidential chief of staff Mahmoud Vaezi as saying that the US has agreed to "remove all insurance, oil and shipping sanctions imposed by the former president Donald Trump." Watch: "About 1,040 Trump-era sanctions will be lifted under the agreement. It was also agreed to lift some sanctions on individuals and members of the supreme leader's inner circle," Vaezi told the state-run channel. However, US officials said there were still details to be hammered out even as Joe Biden's administration seeks to restore the nuclear deal. Heiko Maas said negotiations are going forward in a "step by step" direction in every round of negotiation. The German foreign minister said there was a "good chance to conclude them in the foreseeable future". The US government under ex-president Trump had pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal citing violations as it imposed harsh sanctions on Iran. However, Israel's new government under Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has vowed it would object to the revival of the deal between world powers and Iran. Israel's foreign minister Yair Lapid had said that the country "will do whatever it takes to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear bomb". Meanwhile, Iran's state television said the country had allegedly foiled a sabotage attack on a building belonging to the country's atomic energy agency even as the government warned the United States that seizure of 33 websites run by Iran-linked media was "not constructive" for ongoing nuclear talks. The US Justice Department had earlier declared that the 33 Iranian government-controlled media websites violated sanctions which included three websites belonging to Iraqi group Kataeb Hezbollah. (With inputs from Agencies)

'About 1,040 Trump-era sanctions will be lifted': Iran, Germany eye nuclear deal revival

As we get closer to Iran’s 13th presidential elections, once again Iranians with great passion and enthusiasm are going through another democratic process to determine their future after carefully assessing initiatives, pledges and programs of the seven presidential candidates who have deemed qualified to run in this substantial elections.

Elections in Iran is the highest manifestation of the public will in the socio-economic and political spheres and it is the most effective instrument to realise the sovereignty of Iranian people through a peaceful and participatory process.&nbsp;

Therefore, every four years, Iranians elect a new president, and members of the Parliament (Majlis), the assembly of experts, and local councils to show their responsibility and to enforce their legal rights for a better future.

Now, after 42 years since the beginning of the Islamic Revolution, on average, one election in a year has been held which indicates the relevance of democracy in the country.&nbsp;

This is of crucial importance, because Iran's history, prior to the 1979 Islamic Revolution, had never witnessed any landmark juncture at which the Iranian people played a leading role in determining their destiny.&nbsp;

Moreover, Iran is the only country in the region which has successfully and consistently held such elections on time and without delays even during extraordinary situations such as natural disasters, pandemics and the eight-year imposed war during the past four decades.&nbsp;

The Islamic Republic of Iran, in order to fulfill the aspirations of its people and hedging against despotism and foreign interventions, has developed a unique political system which consists of two major pillars of "Islamic identity "and "republic values".&nbsp;

In such a system which is rooted in Islamic teachings, lessons learned in the course of the history and from the resistance against notorious regimes and foreign occupation, the people could freely express their views on governance and to change the incumbent leadership in line with the Islamic values and democratic merits highly recognised and endorsed by its constitutional system.

&nbsp;The important point, in terms of domestic political stability in the country is that the rotation in the government administrations and other decision-making bodies has always been through the polls and direct involvement of the Iranian citizens and interestingly, the result has always shocked the foreign observers. This shows how the will of the people is relevant in Iran's political system.&nbsp;

With Iran’s 13th presidential elections just around the corner, there are heated debates about good governance between candidates from different factions and affiliations which have been reflected during several televised debates.&nbsp;

This time, the mainstream call of candidates is focusing on the imperative of an inward-looking economy to ensure its sustained growth and development.&nbsp;

Accordingly, there is much heated debate among Iranians on how the next president would and should tackle the problems facing the country, especially at a time when the nation has been the target of economic terrorism and the toughest unjust and inhumane sanctions imposed by the United States on the Iranian people to punish them for their steadfastness on independence and the non-aligned path carved by the Islamic Revolution.

Contrary to the biased narrative on Iran's domestic dynamics and regardless of any poll results, the ongoing debate on the best direction of the economy and other internal and foreign policy related issues indicates that thanks to the large degree of democracy existing in the country, the debates are not restricted and the candidates freely question and discuss every aspect.

Now, as a result of a vibrant political system in Iran which is a source of strength and sustainability, it has been more than four decades that, the Iranian people have been standing firm in safeguarding the values and achieving the aspirations of the Islamic Revolution in the face of all the hostilities and the conspiracies orchestrated against them by those who have been bent on breaking the people’s will and bringing down the Islamic establishment.

In summary, Iran has exercised a dynamic and unique political system in more than four decades after its establishment, manifested in regular and frequent elections at an inclusive participation of its people.&nbsp;

No matter what the result would be the day after the elections, the significant outcome would be the evolving dynamism of the political system in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

As we get closer to Iran’s 13th presidential elections, once again Iranians with great passion and enthusiasm are going through another democratic process to determine their future after carefully assessing initiatives, pledges and programs of the seven presidential candidates who have deemed qualified to run in this substantial elections.

As we get closer to Iran’s 13th presidential elections, once again Iranians with great passion and enthusiasm are going through another democratic process to determine their future after carefully assessing initiatives, pledges and programs of the seven presidential candidates who have deemed qualified to run in this substantial elections. Elections in Iran is the highest manifestation of the public will in the socio-economic and political spheres and it is the most effective instrument to realise the sovereignty of Iranian people through a peaceful and participatory process. Therefore, every four years, Iranians elect a new president, and members of the Parliament (Majlis), the assembly of experts, and local councils to show their responsibility and to enforce their legal rights for a better future. Now, after 42 years since the beginning of the Islamic Revolution, on average, one election in a year has been held which indicates the relevance of democracy in the country. This is of crucial importance, because Iran's history, prior to the 1979 Islamic Revolution, had never witnessed any landmark juncture at which the Iranian people played a leading role in determining their destiny. Moreover, Iran is the only country in the region which has successfully and consistently held such elections on time and without delays even during extraordinary situations such as natural disasters, pandemics and the eight-year imposed war during the past four decades. The Islamic Republic of Iran, in order to fulfill the aspirations of its people and hedging against despotism and foreign interventions, has developed a unique political system which consists of two major pillars of "Islamic identity "and "republic values". In such a system which is rooted in Islamic teachings, lessons learned in the course of the history and from the resistance against notorious regimes and foreign occupation, the people could freely express their views on governance and to change the incumbent leadership in line with the Islamic values and democratic merits highly recognised and endorsed by its constitutional system. The important point, in terms of domestic political stability in the country is that the rotation in the government administrations and other decision-making bodies has always been through the polls and direct involvement of the Iranian citizens and interestingly, the result has always shocked the foreign observers. This shows how the will of the people is relevant in Iran's political system. With Iran’s 13th presidential elections just around the corner, there are heated debates about good governance between candidates from different factions and affiliations which have been reflected during several televised debates. This time, the mainstream call of candidates is focusing on the imperative of an inward-looking economy to ensure its sustained growth and development. Accordingly, there is much heated debate among Iranians on how the next president would and should tackle the problems facing the country, especially at a time when the nation has been the target of economic terrorism and the toughest unjust and inhumane sanctions imposed by the United States on the Iranian people to punish them for their steadfastness on independence and the non-aligned path carved by the Islamic Revolution. Contrary to the biased narrative on Iran's domestic dynamics and regardless of any poll results, the ongoing debate on the best direction of the economy and other internal and foreign policy related issues indicates that thanks to the large degree of democracy existing in the country, the debates are not restricted and the candidates freely question and discuss every aspect. Now, as a result of a vibrant political system in Iran which is a source of strength and sustainability, it has been more than four decades that, the Iranian people have been standing firm in safeguarding the values and achieving the aspirations of the Islamic Revolution in the face of all the hostilities and the conspiracies orchestrated against them by those who have been bent on breaking the people’s will and bringing down the Islamic establishment. In summary, Iran has exercised a dynamic and unique political system in more than four decades after its establishment, manifested in regular and frequent elections at an inclusive participation of its people. No matter what the result would be the day after the elections, the significant outcome would be the evolving dynamism of the political system in the Islamic Republic of Iran. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: Iran’s 2021 Presidential elections - dynamics and merits of a political system

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that hundreds of US sanctions will remain on Iran even if the United States rejoins the 2015 nuclear accord. Blinken said the sanctions will remain in place until Iran's behaviour changes.

Antony Blinken says hundreds of sanctions to remain on Iran even if US rejoins nuclear deal

Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps unleashes new warship with drones, helicopters onboard

The sanctions were suspended in 2015 following a multilateral nuclear deal with Iran in July that year.

US reimposes sanctions on Iran

The United Nations on Tuesday&nbsp;blocked a bid by the Trump administration to reimpose international sanctions on Iran due to lack of consensus at the UNSC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-need-permission-to-initiate-snapback-us-in-tussle-with-france-uk-over-iran-sanctions-322448">Also Read:&nbsp;'Don't need permission to initiate snapback': US in tussle with France, UK over Iran sanctions</a>

Indonesia which is the president of the Council said it was "not in a position to take further action" on the US request after thirteen council members had expressed their opposition on Friday.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-security-council-once-again-rejects-us-bid-to-extend-iran-arms-embargo-322342/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said earlier that the US had started a 30-day process to reimpose all international sanctions against Iran as it had allegedly breached the 2015 nuclear deal. The United States said it can trigger the "snapback" process since a 2015 Security Council resolution still enshrines the nuclear deal names after its participant.

After the announcement, US ambassador Kelly Craft said: "Let me just make it really, really clear: the Trump administration has no fear in standing in limited company on this matter," she told the council. "I only regret that other members of this council have lost their way and now find themselves standing in the company of terrorists."

The United States had walked out of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran two years ago. The deal was signed along with other western powers, the US government alleged that the Iran government had failed to comply with the 2015 nuclear deal.

Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad hit out at Pompeo saying it was "lawless bullying leaves US isolated again."

After the announcement by the Council, Iran said the US request, "including all references therein, are null and void, have no legal standing and effect and are thus completely inadmissible."

The United Nations on Tuesday blocked a bid by the Trump administration to reimpose international sanctions on Iran due to lack of consensus at the UNSC. Also Read: 'Don't need permission to initiate snapback': US in tussle with France, UK over Iran sanctions Indonesia which is the president of the Council said it was "not in a position to take further action" on the US request after thirteen council members had expressed their opposition on Friday.

The United Nations on Tuesday blocked a bid by the Trump administration to reimpose international sanctions on Iran due to lack of consensus at the UNSC. Also Read: 'Don't need permission to initiate snapback': US in tussle with France, UK over Iran sanctions Indonesia which is the president of the Council said it was "not in a position to take further action" on the US request after thirteen council members had expressed their opposition on Friday. Watch: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said earlier that the US had started a 30-day process to reimpose all international sanctions against Iran as it had allegedly breached the 2015 nuclear deal. The United States said it can trigger the "snapback" process since a 2015 Security Council resolution still enshrines the nuclear deal names after its participant. After the announcement, US ambassador Kelly Craft said: "Let me just make it really, really clear: the Trump administration has no fear in standing in limited company on this matter," she told the council. "I only regret that other members of this council have lost their way and now find themselves standing in the company of terrorists." The United States had walked out of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran two years ago. The deal was signed along with other western powers, the US government alleged that the Iran government had failed to comply with the 2015 nuclear deal. Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad hit out at Pompeo saying it was "lawless bullying leaves US isolated again." After the announcement by the Council, Iran said the US request, "including all references therein, are null and void, have no legal standing and effect and are thus completely inadmissible."

UN blocks Trump administration's bid to trigger 'snapback' sanctions on Iran

US&nbsp;sanctions imposed on Iran's shipping network took effect on Monday, months after they were announced in December following accusations of supporting proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in a statement on Monday warned commercial and maritime industries, governments and others that they risked US&nbsp;sanctions if they did business with the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) and its Shanghai-based subsidiary, E-Sail Shipping Company.

The State Department had announced the designations in December but allowed a delay for them to take effect, giving time for exporters of humanitarian goods to Iran to find different shipping methods, according to the statement.

"These designations serve as a clear warning that anyone doing business with or otherwise supporting IRISL or E-Sail are exposed to potential sanctions and risk contributing to Iran’s proliferation-sensitive programs, including its nuclear and missile programs," Pompeo said in the statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-president-writes-to-indian-pm-says-us-sanctions-impacting-fight-against-coronavirus-286449">Iran president writes to Indian PM, says US sanctions impacting fight against coronavirus&nbsp;</a>

He also asked governments around the world to investigate activity by the shipping entities in their ports and seas, encouraging them to take appropriate action to stop the activity.

The State Department accused IRISL of repeatedly transporting items related to Iran's ballistic missile and military programs, as well as other proliferation-sensitive items.

In December, Pompeo said E-Sail Shipping Company "knowingly transports illicit materials from Iran's Aerospace Industries Organization, which oversees all of Iran's missile industry" and has worked with Iranian organizations subject to U.N. sanctions.

US sanctions imposed on Iran's shipping network took effect on Monday, months after they were announced in December following accusations of supporting proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

US sanctions imposed on Iran's shipping network took effect on Monday, months after they were announced in December following accusations of supporting proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in a statement on Monday warned commercial and maritime industries, governments and others that they risked US sanctions if they did business with the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) and its Shanghai-based subsidiary, E-Sail Shipping Company. The State Department had announced the designations in December but allowed a delay for them to take effect, giving time for exporters of humanitarian goods to Iran to find different shipping methods, according to the statement. "These designations serve as a clear warning that anyone doing business with or otherwise supporting IRISL or E-Sail are exposed to potential sanctions and risk contributing to Iran’s proliferation-sensitive programs, including its nuclear and missile programs," Pompeo said in the statement. Also read: Iran president writes to Indian PM, says US sanctions impacting fight against coronavirus He also asked governments around the world to investigate activity by the shipping entities in their ports and seas, encouraging them to take appropriate action to stop the activity. The State Department accused IRISL of repeatedly transporting items related to Iran's ballistic missile and military programs, as well as other proliferation-sensitive items. In December, Pompeo said E-Sail Shipping Company "knowingly transports illicit materials from Iran's Aerospace Industries Organization, which oversees all of Iran's missile industry" and has worked with Iranian organizations subject to U.N. sanctions.

US sanctions imposed on Iranian shipping network over proliferation take effect

Iran on Tuesday reported 71 deaths due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-will-coronavirus-end-in-us-uk-france-india-study-predicts-dates-month-295324">coronavirus</a> in the last 24 hours taking the death toll to 5,877 which is the highest in the Middle East.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trumps-attack-china-says-us-shirking-responsibility-diverting-public-attention-over-coronavirus-295340">Also Read:&nbsp;After Trump's attack, China says US shirking responsibility &amp; diverting public attention over coronavirus</a>

On Monday, the country had reported 96 deaths from the novel coronavirus.

The are now over 1,000 new cases of COVID-19 infection in the country, with 92,584 the total number of infections in the country.

Iran's health ministry said that 72,439 people were treated and recovered in the hospital.&nbsp;

The ministry asserted that daily infection count had fallen to 991, which was below the 1,000 for the first time since March 10.

The authorities had earlier closed schools and universities in a bid to combat the virus, however, the number of cases has continued to rise.

Iran has struggled to contain the virus since it first reported cases on February 19. The Iran government has allowed a "phased" reopening of shops and has lifted restrictions on movement within the country since April 11 but mosques, schools and cinemas remain closed.

Amdi the Ramadan festivities on Saturday, health officials warned of "fresh outbreak" of coronavirus cases as the country continued to battle the virus. Citizens could not go to mosques to pray due to the restrictions.

Health ministry officials Jahanpour reiterated social distancing and hygiene measures to guard against COVID-19. The tensions between Iran and the US has also added to the hardships in the country with officials often hitting out against US sanctions.

"In addition to fighting the virus, Iran faces illegal and inhuman American sanctions, doubling the pressure on the Iranian people," &nbsp;Iran's deputy foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi had said earlier.

Iran on Tuesday reported 71 deaths due to coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the death toll to 5,877 which is the highest in the Middle East. Also Read: After Trump's attack, China says US shirking responsibility & diverting public attention over coronavirus On Monday, the country had reported 96 deaths from the novel coronavirus.

Iran on Tuesday reported 71 deaths due to coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the death toll to 5,877 which is the highest in the Middle East. Also Read: After Trump's attack, China says US shirking responsibility & diverting public attention over coronavirus On Monday, the country had reported 96 deaths from the novel coronavirus. The are now over 1,000 new cases of COVID-19 infection in the country, with 92,584 the total number of infections in the country. Iran's health ministry said that 72,439 people were treated and recovered in the hospital. The ministry asserted that daily infection count had fallen to 991, which was below the 1,000 for the first time since March 10. The authorities had earlier closed schools and universities in a bid to combat the virus, however, the number of cases has continued to rise. Iran has struggled to contain the virus since it first reported cases on February 19. The Iran government has allowed a "phased" reopening of shops and has lifted restrictions on movement within the country since April 11 but mosques, schools and cinemas remain closed. Amdi the Ramadan festivities on Saturday, health officials warned of "fresh outbreak" of coronavirus cases as the country continued to battle the virus. Citizens could not go to mosques to pray due to the restrictions. Health ministry officials Jahanpour reiterated social distancing and hygiene measures to guard against COVID-19. The tensions between Iran and the US has also added to the hardships in the country with officials often hitting out against US sanctions. "In addition to fighting the virus, Iran faces illegal and inhuman American sanctions, doubling the pressure on the Iranian people," Iran's deputy foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi had said earlier.

Iran reports 73 new coronavirus deaths, 1,000 new cases; death toll crosses over 5,800

Polling booths opened in Iran on Thursday with President Hassan Rouhani's fate in the balance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-defends-barring-of-candidates-as-campaign-ends-281826">Also Read:&nbsp;Iran defends barring of candidates as campaign ends</a>

The country's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-pullout-from-nuclear-deal-makes-iran-elections-even-more-crucial-281859">Khamenei</a> was one of the early voters while calling people to take part in the election "as soon as possible" and &nbsp;"guarantee the country's national interests".

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-parliamentary-election-today-281912/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It is the eleventh parliamentary election in the country since 1979 taking place this time under US sanctions and under the cloud of former Quad chief Sulemani's death which created widespread uproar in the country after the Iran general was killed by a US drone strike in Iraq.

Public anger aimed at the government last month as Iran's army brought down a Ukrainian airliner killing all 176 people on board on the same day the US conducted drone strikes against Sulemani.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-to-vote-in-crucial-parliamentary-election-many-see-as-lost-cause-281844">In Pics: Iran to vote in crucial parliamentary election, many see as 'lost cause'</a>

Experts feel the Conservatives may win ousting Rouhani as the country battles high inflation and economic downturn amid US sanctions. In the past ten elections, Iran has averaged 60.5 per cent turnout.

The Guardian Council said it expected at least 50 per cent of registered voters to cast ballots.

At least 58 million people are eligible to vote with 16,033 candidates contesting for 290 seats in 31 provinces.

Voting for the Majles, Iran's parliament lasts for at least ten hours or more with final results expected by Sunday.

Polling booths opened in Iran on Thursday with President Hassan Rouhani's fate in the balance. Also Read: Iran defends barring of candidates as campaign ends The country's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was one of the early voters while calling people to take part in the election "as soon as possible" and "guarantee the country's national interests".

Polling booths opened in Iran on Thursday with President Hassan Rouhani's fate in the balance. Also Read: Iran defends barring of candidates as campaign ends The country's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was one of the early voters while calling people to take part in the election "as soon as possible" and "guarantee the country's national interests". Watch Video: It is the eleventh parliamentary election in the country since 1979 taking place this time under US sanctions and under the cloud of former Quad chief Sulemani's death which created widespread uproar in the country after the Iran general was killed by a US drone strike in Iraq. Public anger aimed at the government last month as Iran's army brought down a Ukrainian airliner killing all 176 people on board on the same day the US conducted drone strikes against Sulemani. In Pics: Iran to vote in crucial parliamentary election, many see as 'lost cause' Experts feel the Conservatives may win ousting Rouhani as the country battles high inflation and economic downturn amid US sanctions. In the past ten elections, Iran has averaged 60.5 per cent turnout. The Guardian Council said it expected at least 50 per cent of registered voters to cast ballots. At least 58 million people are eligible to vote with 16,033 candidates contesting for 290 seats in 31 provinces. Voting for the Majles, Iran's parliament lasts for at least ten hours or more with final results expected by Sunday.

Voting begins in Iran's parliamentary elections

The United States imposed sanctions on nine people with ties to Iran's Supreme <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-new-iran-sanctions-but-waives-others-259135">Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a>, including his chief of staff, one of his sons and the head of Iran's judiciary, the US&nbsp;Treasury Department said on Monday.

The United States also sanctioned Iran's Armed Forces General Staff, the department said in the statement, which came 40 years after Iran seized the US&nbsp;embassy in Tehran, taking more than 50 Americans hostage.

"Today the Treasury Department is targeting the unelected officials who surround Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, and implement his destabilizing policies," US&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.

"These individuals are linked to a wide range of malign behaviours by the regime, including bombings of the US&nbsp;Marine Barracks in Beirut in 1983 and the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association in 1994, as well as torture, extrajudicial killings, and repression of civilians," Mnuchin added.

Those targeted by the US&nbsp;sanctions include Khamenei's chief of staff Mohammad Mohammadi Golpayegani as well as Vahid Haghanian, who the department said "has been referred to as the Supreme Leader’s right hand."

Ebrahim Raisi, who Khamenei appointed in March 2019 to lead Iran’s judiciary, and Mojtaba Khamenei, Khamenei's second son, were also sanctioned, Treasury said.

US&nbsp;sanctions block any US-controlled property or interests held by those targeted and prohibit anyone or any entities in the United States from dealing with those sanctioned.

The United States imposed sanctions on nine people with ties to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, including his chief of staff, one of his sons and the head of Iran's judiciary, the US Treasury Department said on Monday.

The United States imposed sanctions on nine people with ties to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, including his chief of staff, one of his sons and the head of Iran's judiciary, the US Treasury Department said on Monday. The United States also sanctioned Iran's Armed Forces General Staff, the department said in the statement, which came 40 years after Iran seized the US embassy in Tehran, taking more than 50 Americans hostage. "Today the Treasury Department is targeting the unelected officials who surround Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, and implement his destabilizing policies," US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. "These individuals are linked to a wide range of malign behaviours by the regime, including bombings of the US Marine Barracks in Beirut in 1983 and the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association in 1994, as well as torture, extrajudicial killings, and repression of civilians," Mnuchin added. Those targeted by the US sanctions include Khamenei's chief of staff Mohammad Mohammadi Golpayegani as well as Vahid Haghanian, who the department said "has been referred to as the Supreme Leader’s right hand." Ebrahim Raisi, who Khamenei appointed in March 2019 to lead Iran’s judiciary, and Mojtaba Khamenei, Khamenei's second son, were also sanctioned, Treasury said. US sanctions block any US-controlled property or interests held by those targeted and prohibit anyone or any entities in the United States from dealing with those sanctioned.

US imposes sanctions on nine Iranians with ties to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday he will try to convince <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-openly-sowing-seeds-of-hostility-reject-pompeos-baseless-allegation-iran-230839">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a> to suspend some sanctions on Iran to allow for negotiations to de-escalate the crisis in the region.

"I want to convince Trump that it is in his interest to re-open a negotiation process (and) go back on certain sanctions to give negotiations a chance," Macron told reporters on the train from Tokyo to Kyoto.

The French leader will meet his US&nbsp;counterpart on the sidelines of the G20 summit this weekend.

Macron said the idea would be to begin a discussion and set up the parameters of talks ranging from Iran's nuclear activities to its wider role in the region.

"We'd give ourselves a few months," Macron said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-slams-mike-pompeos-remarks-against-the-countrys-role-in-sponsoring-terrorism-230851/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Washington pulled out of the nuclear accord last year and has imposed punishing economic sanctions against Tehran.

Iran has threatened to respond by setting aside some of the deal's restrictions, which could cause the deal to collapse, though it has called on European powers to do more to shield it from US sanctions - a move the White House has called "nuclear blackmail".

The European powers are scrambling to protect trade with Iran but what they can achieve pales in comparison to US sanctions aimed at slashing Iran's vital oil exports to zero.

Diplomats have also stressed the European signatories are weary of Iranian demands that they sustain a pact that Washington has withdrawn from and said if Tehran followed suit they would have little choice but to acquiesce in the reimposition of UN sanctions.

The International Atomic Energy Agency, which is policing the deal's nuclear restrictions, does not generally comment on details of its inspections. It was not immediately available for comment on Thursday.

"We've made it clear to the Iranians that we have zero tolerance on the nuclear issue," a senior European official said. "They are close to the threshold, but we will wait for the IAEA to report back to us in the coming days."

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday he will try to convince US President Donald Trump to suspend some sanctions on Iran to allow for negotiations to de-escalate the crisis in the region.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday he will try to convince US President Donald Trump to suspend some sanctions on Iran to allow for negotiations to de-escalate the crisis in the region. "I want to convince Trump that it is in his interest to re-open a negotiation process (and) go back on certain sanctions to give negotiations a chance," Macron told reporters on the train from Tokyo to Kyoto. The French leader will meet his US counterpart on the sidelines of the G20 summit this weekend. Macron said the idea would be to begin a discussion and set up the parameters of talks ranging from Iran's nuclear activities to its wider role in the region. "We'd give ourselves a few months," Macron said. Washington pulled out of the nuclear accord last year and has imposed punishing economic sanctions against Tehran. Iran has threatened to respond by setting aside some of the deal's restrictions, which could cause the deal to collapse, though it has called on European powers to do more to shield it from US sanctions - a move the White House has called "nuclear blackmail". The European powers are scrambling to protect trade with Iran but what they can achieve pales in comparison to US sanctions aimed at slashing Iran's vital oil exports to zero. Diplomats have also stressed the European signatories are weary of Iranian demands that they sustain a pact that Washington has withdrawn from and said if Tehran followed suit they would have little choice but to acquiesce in the reimposition of UN sanctions. The International Atomic Energy Agency, which is policing the deal's nuclear restrictions, does not generally comment on details of its inspections. It was not immediately available for comment on Thursday. "We've made it clear to the Iranians that we have zero tolerance on the nuclear issue," a senior European official said. "They are close to the threshold, but we will wait for the IAEA to report back to us in the coming days."

I want to convince Trump to drop certain sanctions against Iran to give negotiations a chance: Macron

Speaking during a live televised address, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Tuesday that Donald Trump’s White House is “afflicted by mental retardation,” Watch full video to know more.

Donald Trump’s White House Is ‘Afflicted by Mental Retardation’, says Iranian President

Iran has followed through on a threat to accelerate its production of enriched uranium, the head of the UN&nbsp;atomic watchdog said on Monday, departing from his usual guarded language to say he was worried about increasing tension.

The assessment comes at a time of sharply increased US-Iranian confrontation in recent weeks, a year after Washington abandoned an agreement between Iran and world powers to curb Tehran’s nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of international financial sanctions.

Washington tightened sanctions from the start of May, ordering all countries and companies to halt all imports of Iranian oil or be banished from the global financial system. It has also dispatched extra troops to the region to counter what it describes as Iranian threats.

Iran has responded with a threat to increase its enrichment of uranium, saying it is up to Europeans who still support the nuclear deal to save it by finding ways to ensure Tehran gets the economic benefits it was promised.

IAEA chief Yukiya Amano, whose agency is responsible for monitoring Iranian compliance with the nuclear deal, said Iran was now producing more enriched uranium than before, but it was not clear when it might reach stockpile limits set in the pact.

“Yes, (the) production rate is increasing,” he told a news conference when asked if enriched uranium production had accelerated since the agency’s last quarterly report, which found Iran compliant with the nuclear deal as of May 20. He declined to quantify the increase.

Iran said last month it was still abiding by the deal but would quadruple its production of enriched uranium - a move that could take it out of compliance if stockpiles rise too far. It demanded European countries do more to shield it from sanctions.

On Monday, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas became the most senior Western official to visit Iran since the new war of words erupted last month between Washington and Tehran.

“The situation in the region here is highly explosive and extremely serious,” Maas told a news conference alongside Iran’s foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif. “A dangerous escalation of existing tensions can also lead to military escalation.”

In his meeting with Maas, President Hassan Rouhani blamed the United States for the soaring tension and called on the European signatories of the deal to “resist the economic war on Iran imposed by America”.

“This war ... will never be beneficial for any country and the Iranian people will resist these pressures and bullying behaviours,” Iran’s state TV quoted Rouhani as saying.

Zarif said Iran would cooperate with the European Union to save the deal. “Reducing tension is only possible through stopping the economic war by America,” he said. “Those who wage such wars cannot expect to remain safe.”

Maas called on Iran to avoid an escalation and stick to its commitments from the nuclear deal. Otherwise, Tehran would risk further isolation on the international stage and more instability in the region, Maas warned in an interview with ZDF television, broadcast shortly after his return to Berlin on Monday evening.

Reduce tensions through dialogue

Amano said he was worried about increasing tensions over the nuclear issue. He added he hoped “that ways can be found to reduce the current tensions through dialogue. It is essential that Iran fully implements its nuclear-related commitments” under the deal.

In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said the IAEA findings showed “that Iran is going in the wrong direction and it underscores the continuing challenge Iran poses to international peace and security.”

Washington’s European allies opposed its decision last year to abandon the nuclear deal, reached in 2015 between Iran and the United States, Germany, France, Britain, Russia and China. They have promised to help Iran find other ways to trade, although with no success so far. All major European companies that had announced plans to invest in Iran have since called them off for fear of US&nbsp;punishment.

Iran says the Europeans have not done enough to provide it with alternative ways to trade.

“We have not seen any serious measures taken by the Europeans in the past year despite their fairly good political stance,” Rouhani said.

Maas said there were limits to how much help the European countries could provide.

“We want to fulfil our obligations,” Maas said during his news conference with Zarif. “We cannot work miracles, but we will try to avert a failure” of the nuclear deal.

France, Britain and Germany have set up a special-purpose vehicle called Instex, designed to allow payments to Iran that would legally bypass sanctions. It has yet to be launched.

It is a new instrument and not straightforward to put into effect, Maas told reporters, adding: “But all the formal requirements are in place now, and so I’m assuming we’ll be ready to use it in the foreseeable future.”

Washington has denounced the European plans. Diplomats say the system is unlikely to have much impact on commercial business with Iran but could be used for humanitarian transactions that are permitted under US&nbsp;sanctions.

The State Department’s Ortagus said the United States would not support any payment mechanism that allowed countries or businesses to conduct transactions with sanctioned Iranian entities.

Washington says the nuclear deal should be expanded to cover other issues including Iran’s missile program and its role in wars in the region. European countries argue that while they share those concerns, it would be harder to address them without the nuclear deal in place.

Iran has ruled out any negotiation over its ballistic missile program and its activities in the Middle East, where Tehran has been involved in proxy wars with Saudi Arabia for decades.

Iran has followed through on a threat to accelerate its production of enriched uranium, the head of the UN atomic watchdog said on Monday, departing from his usual guarded language to say he was worried about increasing tension.

Iran has followed through on a threat to accelerate its production of enriched uranium, the head of the UN atomic watchdog said on Monday, departing from his usual guarded language to say he was worried about increasing tension. The assessment comes at a time of sharply increased US-Iranian confrontation in recent weeks, a year after Washington abandoned an agreement between Iran and world powers to curb Tehran’s nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of international financial sanctions. Washington tightened sanctions from the start of May, ordering all countries and companies to halt all imports of Iranian oil or be banished from the global financial system. It has also dispatched extra troops to the region to counter what it describes as Iranian threats. Iran has responded with a threat to increase its enrichment of uranium, saying it is up to Europeans who still support the nuclear deal to save it by finding ways to ensure Tehran gets the economic benefits it was promised. IAEA chief Yukiya Amano, whose agency is responsible for monitoring Iranian compliance with the nuclear deal, said Iran was now producing more enriched uranium than before, but it was not clear when it might reach stockpile limits set in the pact. “Yes, (the) production rate is increasing,” he told a news conference when asked if enriched uranium production had accelerated since the agency’s last quarterly report, which found Iran compliant with the nuclear deal as of May 20. He declined to quantify the increase. Iran said last month it was still abiding by the deal but would quadruple its production of enriched uranium - a move that could take it out of compliance if stockpiles rise too far. It demanded European countries do more to shield it from sanctions. On Monday, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas became the most senior Western official to visit Iran since the new war of words erupted last month between Washington and Tehran. “The situation in the region here is highly explosive and extremely serious,” Maas told a news conference alongside Iran’s foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif. “A dangerous escalation of existing tensions can also lead to military escalation.” In his meeting with Maas, President Hassan Rouhani blamed the United States for the soaring tension and called on the European signatories of the deal to “resist the economic war on Iran imposed by America”. “This war ... will never be beneficial for any country and the Iranian people will resist these pressures and bullying behaviours,” Iran’s state TV quoted Rouhani as saying. Zarif said Iran would cooperate with the European Union to save the deal. “Reducing tension is only possible through stopping the economic war by America,” he said. “Those who wage such wars cannot expect to remain safe.” Maas called on Iran to avoid an escalation and stick to its commitments from the nuclear deal. Otherwise, Tehran would risk further isolation on the international stage and more instability in the region, Maas warned in an interview with ZDF television, broadcast shortly after his return to Berlin on Monday evening. Reduce tensions through dialogue Amano said he was worried about increasing tensions over the nuclear issue. He added he hoped “that ways can be found to reduce the current tensions through dialogue. It is essential that Iran fully implements its nuclear-related commitments” under the deal. In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said the IAEA findings showed “that Iran is going in the wrong direction and it underscores the continuing challenge Iran poses to international peace and security.” Washington’s European allies opposed its decision last year to abandon the nuclear deal, reached in 2015 between Iran and the United States, Germany, France, Britain, Russia and China. They have promised to help Iran find other ways to trade, although with no success so far. All major European companies that had announced plans to invest in Iran have since called them off for fear of US punishment. Iran says the Europeans have not done enough to provide it with alternative ways to trade. “We have not seen any serious measures taken by the Europeans in the past year despite their fairly good political stance,” Rouhani said. Maas said there were limits to how much help the European countries could provide. “We want to fulfil our obligations,” Maas said during his news conference with Zarif. “We cannot work miracles, but we will try to avert a failure” of the nuclear deal. France, Britain and Germany have set up a special-purpose vehicle called Instex, designed to allow payments to Iran that would legally bypass sanctions. It has yet to be launched. It is a new instrument and not straightforward to put into effect, Maas told reporters, adding: “But all the formal requirements are in place now, and so I’m assuming we’ll be ready to use it in the foreseeable future.” Washington has denounced the European plans. Diplomats say the system is unlikely to have much impact on commercial business with Iran but could be used for humanitarian transactions that are permitted under US sanctions. The State Department’s Ortagus said the United States would not support any payment mechanism that allowed countries or businesses to conduct transactions with sanctioned Iranian entities. Washington says the nuclear deal should be expanded to cover other issues including Iran’s missile program and its role in wars in the region. European countries argue that while they share those concerns, it would be harder to address them without the nuclear deal in place. Iran has ruled out any negotiation over its ballistic missile program and its activities in the Middle East, where Tehran has been involved in proxy wars with Saudi Arabia for decades.

Iran has accelerated enrichment of uranium: IAEA

Iran said on Sunday Europe was in no position to criticise Tehran for its military capabilities and it called on European leaders to normalise trade ties with the Islamic Republic despite US sanctions, or face consequences.

President Donald Trump last year withdrew the United States from world powers' 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimposed sweeping sanctions. Trump condemned the accord, signed by his predecessor Barack Obama, as flawed for not being permanent and for not covering Iran’s ballistic missile programme or its role in conflicts around the Middle East.

The west European signatories to the deal - France, Britain and Germany - share the same concerns as the United States over Iran’s ballistic missile development and regional activities.

However, they have defended the nuclear accord as the best way to limit Iran’s enrichment of uranium, a potential pathway to nuclear weapons, and a basis for future negotiations on a broader palette of security and other longstanding disputes.

"Europeans are not in a position to criticise Iran for issues outside the JCPOA," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif was quoted as saying by the state broadcaster, using the acronym for the nuclear deal.

"The Europeans and other signatories of the JCPOA should normalise economic ties with Iran...We will halt our commitments or will take action in accordance with their measures."

Last month, Iran scaled back some commitments under the 2015 deal and warned that in 60 days it would resume enriching uranium to a higher degree than that permitted by the accord if the Europeans failed to shield it against the US sanctions, which aim to cripple its oil-dependent economy.

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas will visit Iran this week to explore options for preserving the fraying nuclear non-proliferation pact.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani on Sunday criticised French President Emmanuel Macron for saying last week in a meeting with Trump that they shared the same objectives on Iran.

Macron said France wanted to make sure Tehran will not get nuclear weapons: "We had an accord until 2025 and we want to go further and have full certainty in the long run... (Then) reduce ballistic activity and contain Iran regionally."

Larijani was quoted as saying by state media: "The recent remarks by the French president in a meeting with Trump were shameful and inept...Macron's comments did not match what he has been telling our president...in their meetings and on the phone."

Iran insists its nuclear activities are entirely peaceful and has repeatedly refused to discuss its missile programme.

Tehran unveiled on Sunday a new "domestically-produced" air defence system with the capability to trace six targets - including fighetr jets, bombers and drones at the same time and destroy them with missiles.

"Iran will increase its military capabilities to protect its national security and interests, and it will not ask permission from anyone on this matter," Defence Minister Amir Hatami said at an unveiling ceremony for the system.

Iran said on Sunday Europe was in no position to criticise Tehran for its military capabilities and it called on European leaders to normalise trade ties with the Islamic Republic despite US sanctions, or face consequences.

Iran said on Sunday Europe was in no position to criticise Tehran for its military capabilities and it called on European leaders to normalise trade ties with the Islamic Republic despite US sanctions, or face consequences. President Donald Trump last year withdrew the United States from world powers' 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimposed sweeping sanctions. Trump condemned the accord, signed by his predecessor Barack Obama, as flawed for not being permanent and for not covering Iran’s ballistic missile programme or its role in conflicts around the Middle East. The west European signatories to the deal - France, Britain and Germany - share the same concerns as the United States over Iran’s ballistic missile development and regional activities. However, they have defended the nuclear accord as the best way to limit Iran’s enrichment of uranium, a potential pathway to nuclear weapons, and a basis for future negotiations on a broader palette of security and other longstanding disputes. "Europeans are not in a position to criticise Iran for issues outside the JCPOA," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif was quoted as saying by the state broadcaster, using the acronym for the nuclear deal. "The Europeans and other signatories of the JCPOA should normalise economic ties with Iran...We will halt our commitments or will take action in accordance with their measures." Last month, Iran scaled back some commitments under the 2015 deal and warned that in 60 days it would resume enriching uranium to a higher degree than that permitted by the accord if the Europeans failed to shield it against the US sanctions, which aim to cripple its oil-dependent economy. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas will visit Iran this week to explore options for preserving the fraying nuclear non-proliferation pact. Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani on Sunday criticised French President Emmanuel Macron for saying last week in a meeting with Trump that they shared the same objectives on Iran. Macron said France wanted to make sure Tehran will not get nuclear weapons: "We had an accord until 2025 and we want to go further and have full certainty in the long run... (Then) reduce ballistic activity and contain Iran regionally." Larijani was quoted as saying by state media: "The recent remarks by the French president in a meeting with Trump were shameful and inept...Macron's comments did not match what he has been telling our president...in their meetings and on the phone." Iran insists its nuclear activities are entirely peaceful and has repeatedly refused to discuss its missile programme. Tehran unveiled on Sunday a new "domestically-produced" air defence system with the capability to trace six targets - including fighetr jets, bombers and drones at the same time and destroy them with missiles. "Iran will increase its military capabilities to protect its national security and interests, and it will not ask permission from anyone on this matter," Defence Minister Amir Hatami said at an unveiling ceremony for the system.

Europe in no position to criticise Iran for issues outside JCPOA: Foreign Minister Javad Zarif