Iran on Sunday dismissed threats of new U.S. sanctions as a sign of desperation, following a wave of military strikes by Washington and Israel that have targeted the Islamic Republic since late February. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said in a video posted on Telegram that the shift from military action to renewed sanctions rhetoric reflected a lack of strategic options. "The fact that they have moved on from military operations to bring up the same old plans shows that they are desperate," Araqchi stated.
Iranian leaders reiterated defiance as the conflict entered its sixth month. President Masoud Pezeshkian, quoted by the ISNA news agency, said it would be preferable to end hostilities "when we are powerful and have dignity," adding that the world recognizes Iran’s resilience despite U.S. attacks on infrastructure. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said on Saturday that Tehran had received "numerous messages" regarding regional security, signaling ongoing diplomatic engagement despite the escalation.
The U.S. administration has framed its response as a response to Iran’s regional actions, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent scheduled to hold a press conference Monday outlining further measures. In recent remarks, former President Donald Trump warned of economic consequences for any nation providing support to Iran, stating that Washington was observing developments while reiterating that Tehran was not yet prepared to negotiate a viable deal. Trump added that Iran "would love to make a deal" but had not yet met the necessary conditions.
The conflict has disrupted global oil flows, with Iran blocking unauthorized tankers from transiting the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for crude shipments. According to 2025 data from Kpler, more than 80% of Iran’s oil exports are purchased by China, a trade relationship that has helped Tehran withstand pressure. The de facto blockade has pushed global oil prices higher, while U.S. airstrikes have severely weakened Iran’s navy and air force, though Tehran retains sufficient missile and drone capabilities to target regional rivals and disrupt maritime traffic.
Diplomatic efforts continue, with Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir set to visit Tehran on Monday. A Pakistani government source said discussions would include recent developments and the U.S. sanctions threat. The nuclear program remains a point of contention, as U.N. inspectors have been barred from Iran since 2025, leaving the status of Tehran’s nuclear activities uncertain.
