Iran rejects new U.S. sanctions threats

Iran’s foreign minister has rejected new US sanctions threats as a familiar form of pressure that has failed before, saying Washington should stop bullying and instead deal with Tehran respectfully. He said the United States has moved back to old tactics after earlier military threats and that such measures will not solve the dispute. He added that Iran has never been intimidated by economic or military pressure and that any settlement must be based on justice and honor.

The comments came after the US Treasury secretary warned of what he called the toughest sanctions in history, with the administration expected to set out its position soon. The US president has also warned other countries not to provide support to Iran, while Washington is urging China to curb purchases of Iranian oil. China remains one of Iran’s biggest crude buyers and has continued to call for diplomacy.

At the same time, Pakistan is trying to play a mediating role between Tehran and Washington. Pakistani military chief Asim Munir is expected in Tehran as part of regional efforts to ease tensions, and talks are likely to cover the latest sanctions threat. Pakistan has already been involved in previous efforts to reduce hostilities and has presented itself as a channel for dialogue.

Iran says earlier understandings were undermined when the US carried out airstrikes and imposed a blockade, despite an agreement meant to halt hostilities and open the way for negotiations. Tehran’s response signals that it sees fresh sanctions not as leverage, but as another round of failed coercion.