Iran condemns planned US sanctions as state terrorism

On August 26, 2026, Iran formally condemned the United States' threat to impose new economic sanctions, labeling the move as an act of state terrorism in a letter addressed to the United Nations. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Washington is attempting to obstruct Iran's legitimate international trade after failing to achieve its goals through military confrontation. The letter was formally sent to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the Security Council, and member states.

Following these developments, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the Trump administration plans to isolate Iran economically by targeting its trading partners. Bessent warned that any entity conducting business with Tehran would face the full power of the United States, aiming to cut off all of Iran's revenue sources. This announcement has raised questions regarding the impact on major trade partners, specifically China, which remains the primary buyer of Iranian crude oil.

In response, the Iranian Foreign Ministry asserted on August 28 that international compliance with U.S. sanctions constitutes complicity in an illegal act. Tehran characterized the measures as a crime against humanity that threatens the livelihoods of millions, declaring its intent to use all available resources to defend itself against the joint economic and military pressure from the U.S. and Israel.