Iran Threatens Retaliation Against US Economic Interests
Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei has issued a warning to the US, stating that if the maritime blockade continues, Iran will target US economic interests 'fully and with intensity and force.' This threat comes after Tehran accused Washington of failing to implement key provisions of a 14-point memorandum of understanding signed in mid-June.
The memorandum, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, included provisions for ending hostilities, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, lifting a US naval blockade, and beginning a 60-day negotiation process. However, Iran claims that the strait will not fully reopen until Washington fulfills its commitments.
Rezaei also stated that during the ceasefire, Iran had 'broken the maritime blockade' by exporting between 70 million and 80 million barrels of oil, with Iranian oil sales returning to their pre-sanctions level. He added that new export routes have been established, gradually expanding the country's ability to sell its oil.