Iran condemns looming US sanctions as Hormuz standoff deepens

Iran has harshly criticized impending U.S. economic sanctions announced on the eve of their announcement, warning of retaliation against nations participating in the pressure campaign. Diplomatic efforts to resume talks have been fruitless despite ongoing diplomatic initiatives and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's plea for an end to the conflict.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei dismissed the sanctions as an attempt to assert American dominance over sovereign states, asserting such secondary sanctions have no basis in international law. The Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, is set to announce the measures on Monday, following threats to impose the "toughest sanctions in history" on Iran.

U.S. President Donald Trump has also cautioned countries against providing Tehran with any kind of "lifeline," exerting particular pressure on China, which accounts for more than 80% of Iran's seaborne oil exports, according to Kpler data. The sanctions are already impacting Iran, with the central bank governor confirming that the country's oil exports have effectively ceased and access to foreign currency has become increasingly restricted.

In response, Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary, Mohsen Rezaei, has warned that countries cooperating with Washington would be considered enemies and could face consequences, including halting oil exports throughout the Gulf. He also stated that Iran could target other routes used for oil exports and maintain the strait's closure until the U.S. alters its stance.

Meanwhile, Pakistan is attempting to revive diplomatic efforts by facilitating Iraqi oil tankers' passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as the waterway remains disrupted by the regional conflict. Diplomatic contacts continue alongside threats, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi discussing regional developments and ways to enhance peace, stability, and security with Pakistan’s army chief.

However, the immediate negotiating environment remains hostile, with Washington announcing further economic pressure after a 60-day period for agreement expiration on Monday.