Iran criticizes the latest round of sanctions, describing them as indicative of ongoing American hostility towards the well-being of its citizens

Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismaeil Baghaei emphasized on Tuesday evening that the autonomy of nations in making decisions regarding economic and commercial engagements with other countries falls under their legitimate right to self-determination. He further asserted that no entity should invoke political justifications as a means to hinder or interfere with these economic and commercial relationships.

Baghaei has criticized the United States for implementing new sanctions targeting Iran’s foreign trade, arguing that such measures violate the United Nations Charter. Specifically, he pointed out that these actions undermine principles such as national sovereignty and the self-determination of countries. Furthermore, Baghaei contended that the sanctions conflict with international trade laws, which are designed to facilitate free commerce between nations.

He stated that the actions in question are deemed a violation, unjustified and illegitimate, infringing upon the human rights of the Iranian populace. Consequently, he called for the international community to hold the American government accountable.

Baghaei highlighted statements from certain US officials expressing a readiness for dialogue with Iran, while condemning the latest sanctions as the clearest indication of U.S. insincerity and antagonism against the prosperity, progress, and welfare of the Iranian populace.

Baghaei asserted that the Iranian people, cognizant of the United States’ extensive history of adversarial and interventionist actions, alongside its consistent failure to uphold commitments to Iran, are resolute in their pursuit of progress, dignity, and independence.

On Monday, the United States Treasury and State Departments imposed sanctions on over 30 individuals and vessels, targeting key figures such as the leaders of Iran’s National Iranian Oil Company and Iranian Oil Terminals Company. These measures are in response to their involvement in facilitating the sale and transport of Iranian oil.

The United States has initiated a second phase of sanctions targeting Iranian oil sales, following President Donald Trump’s issuance of National Security Presidential Memorandum 2. This memorandum aims to reduce Iran’s crude oil exports to zero as part of a broader strategy.

Iran has faced prolonged Western sanctions due to its nuclear program and various other alleged issues.

Since assuming office, the Trump administration has intensified its measures by reinstating what is referred to as the “maximum pressure” policy. This strategy encompasses a campaign of hybrid warfare directed at Iran.