- Rezaei stated that Iran has not yet attacked American economic interests but would strike US oil and economic companies if sanctions are imposed.
- Neighbors who join the US economic war will be considered 'enemies', according to Rezaei.
- The United Arab Emirates announced it was suspending all trade and financial transactions with Tehran.
- Trump threatened 'tremendous economic consequences' for any country helping or doing business with Tehran.
- The US has been carrying out Operation Economic Fury with targeted sanctions and a naval blockade in the strait of Hormuz.
- Trump's efforts to finish the war he started with Israel on 28 February have foundered after a ceasefire collapsed, leaving Iran in control of the strait of Hormuz.
- Washington has called on other governments, notably China, to join its efforts to isolate Iran, but Beijing has criticized the initiative.
Mohsen Rezaei, Iran's new security chief, declared that neighboring nations siding with the U.S. in its economic war against Iran will be labeled as 'enemies.' In a recent interview, he stated, "we will target their interests" if they join the U.S. sanctions effort.1
Rezaei, a former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, emphasized that Iran has not yet attacked American economic interests, asserting, "So far, we have only targeted military bases". He warned that if sanctions are imposed, Iran would retaliate against U.S. oil firms, stating, "we will strike them".
The U.S. has been actively working to isolate Iran economically, with President Trump recently threatening "tremendous economic consequences" for any country that engages with Tehran. This comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, particularly concerning the strategic strait of Hormuz, which is crucial for global oil supplies.46
Rezaei's comments reflect a hardening stance in Tehran's political and military approach, as he was appointed to his position amid a series of senior appointments aimed at strengthening Iran's resolve against U.S. pressures. The United Arab Emirates has already suspended trade with Iran, signaling the potential impact of U.S. sanctions on Iran's economy.3
As the situation evolves, Rezaei's threats underscore the precarious balance of power in the region and the potential for escalating conflict over economic interests.
“Rezaei's warning comes as the US carries out Operation Economic Fury, with a naval blockade in the strait of Hormuz cutting off Iran's oil exports. The UAE has suspended all trade with Tehran, while China has criticized the US initiative, arguing sanctions won't resolve the conflict.”
The Guardian
