Iran has strongly criticized a new round of U.S. sanctions imposed on more than 30 individuals and vessels connected to its oil trade. These sanctions, announced on Monday, are part of a broader effort by the U.S. to target entities involved in Iran’s oil sales. This is the second round of sanctions in under a month, following the reinstatement of former President Donald Trump’s “maximum pressure” policy on Tehran.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry, through spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei, condemned the sanctions, calling them a “clear sign of hostility” from American policymakers. Baqaei labeled the sanctions as unjust, illegitimate, and a violation of human rights, aimed at harming the welfare and happiness of the Iranian people. This marks an intensification of tensions between the two countries, which have been fraught with conflict over various issues, including Iran’s nuclear program.
The latest sanctions come amid a broader geopolitical context where U.S. President Donald Trump, after returning to office in January, has expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with Iran. However, Trump also emphasized his desire for Iran to become a “great and successful country,” without detailing the specific terms or conditions for such engagement.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, rejected the possibility of direct negotiations with the U.S. regarding Iran’s nuclear program, especially under pressure, threats, or sanctions. This statement reaffirms Iran’s stance from the first term of Trump’s presidency, during which the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, JCPOA). That agreement had provided Iran with sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on its nuclear activities, but Trump’s withdrawal from the deal led to an escalation in tensions and a renewed cycle of sanctions.
This ongoing dispute highlights the difficult path ahead for any potential diplomatic engagement, with Iran remaining firm in its refusal to negotiate under duress. The situation remains volatile, with both sides indicating that they are not ready to compromise on their key demands.
