‘US not in economic position to further restrict, no one buys their bombast’: Iran

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has criticized the United States for its increasing economic restrictions on Iran, stating that Washington is not in a position to further limit its trade relations with other nations. This comes after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent launched "Operation Economic Outcast," a campaign aimed at severing Iran’s financial connections worldwide and targeting those who support the country economically.

Ghalibaf emphasized that Iran’s trading partners have dismissed the U.S. statements, asserting that they do not take such actions into account. The U.S. has imposed economic sanctions on Iran, seeking to limit its access to international financial networks, oil markets, and other revenue sources. These actions are part of an effort to isolate Iran economically and politically.

The Treasury secretary warned Iran of potential global isolation, presenting two options: either face complete isolation and a subsistence economy or work towards normalcy and reintegration into the global economy. Bessent also addressed Iranian soldiers, urging them to question their support for the regime, drawing parallels to the fall of the Berlin Wall when soldiers chose not to enforce oppressive orders.

Iran has responded to the heightened pressure by urging for diplomacy and greater regional engagement. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that Washington’s approach could complicate diplomatic efforts, emphasizing that coercion and bullying will only worsen the situation. He called for unity among Islamic countries, asserting Iran’s readiness to cooperate in economic, political, and security matters.

Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir echoed these sentiments, expressing support for cooperation and calling for precise and meticulous diplomatic processes.