Foreign Ministry raps US ‘absurd’ sanctions on oil minister
Pezeshkian: Oil embargo incapable of posing problems for Iran
The spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the US move to sanction several individuals, including the country’s oil minister, as well as multiple oil tankers and commercial companies.
Esmail Baghaei, referencing the repeated claims by US officials of their readiness for negotiations, described the US imposition of sanctions against Iran as clear evidence of the insincerity of these claims and another sign of their hostility toward the development, progress, and welfare of the Iranian people.
He characterized the US addiction to sanctions and pressure against independent nations as a violation of the rule of law at the international level and a threat to global peace and security.
Baghaei emphasized that the US’s malicious actions to disrupt Iran’s economic and trade exchanges with other countries constitute a blatant violation of the fundamental principles of international law and free trade.
He stated that the Islamic Republic of Iran holds the US government responsible for the consequences of such unilateral and illegitimate measures.
The Foreign Ministry spokesperson praised the tireless efforts of the dedicated individuals in Iran’s Oil Ministry and its subsidiaries in the production, distribution, and trade of petroleum products.
He described the US Treasury’s sanctions against the respected oil minister as absurd and contrary to all international legal standards.
Baghaei asserted that such inappropriate actions will have no impact on the national resolve of Iranians to defend their country’s independence and dignity or their efforts toward development and prosperity.
Oil sanctions not effective
On Thursday, President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized the capabilities of Iran’s scientists, experts, artists, and producers, stating that as long as the country relies on its domestic capacities and resources, enemies cannot create problems for Iran through oil sanctions.
Speaking during a meeting with artists and handicraft industry sector players in the southeastern region of Tehran Province, Pezeshkian stressed that the conspiracies of enemies against the Iranian people will not succeed.
“As long as we have the national assets of experts, elites, producers, industrialists, and artists, we will not be concerned about oil sanctions,” he said.
Pezeshkian noted that problems arise when a nation loses its resources. “Any nation dependent solely on its material resources will eventually face destruction. Therefore, we must focus on human capital, producers, artists, merchants, and scientists. If we support them and do not hinder their activities, threats and sanctions will not succeed,” he added.
Pezeshkian went on to say that, “The US pressures us because we have made ourselves dependent on oil and gas. As long as we rely on the resources beneath our feet, we will face difficulties if those resources are depleted or if their sale is blocked. But if we create art and produce, no power can stop us.”
The president emphasized the government’s unconditional support for artists and its commitment to providing a conducive environment for their work. He said, “We say we are Muslims and Shia, but what sets us apart from non-Muslims? Why should they accept us? It is through our behavior, art, and performance that we must prove ourselves.”
Pezeshkian stated, “Certainly, there are individuals among us who can innovate and achieve new things, but first, we must develop this belief within ourselves.”
Highlighting human potential for innovation, Pezeshkian said, “If we believe that we can solve problems with our hands, intelligence, and abilities, no power can bring us to our knees. In Iran, we are sitting on treasure, and every part of this country is full of riches. It is not befitting for us to remain in our current state. To overcome these conditions, we need a new perspective, solidarity, and fresh support. We must envision new conditions for ourselves, and only then can we live together with dignity and pride.”