Iran warns countries joining US ‘economic war’ they could be treated as enemies
Iran has issued a sharp warning to countries considering joining the United States in imposing economic pressure on Tehran, saying nations that participate could be treated as enemies.
The warning comes as Washington continues efforts to isolate Iran’s economy amid the escalating conflict between the two countries. US President Donald Trump’s administration has been urging allies and other governments to support measures designed to increase pressure on the Islamic Republic.
Mohsen Rezai, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, delivered the warning on Iranian state television, urging governments not to participate in what Tehran describes as an American “economic war.”
“Any country participating in the imposition of economic restrictions against us is considered an enemy,” Rezai said.
He warned that countries that refuse to distance themselves from Washington could face consequences to their economic interests.
Rezai also claimed that Iran still had significant options available as the confrontation continues. He said Iran had so far focused its attacks on US military bases and had not targeted American economic interests.
However, he warned that any move to impose additional economic sanctions could change that approach.
According to Rezai, American oil and economic interests located in and around the region could become targets if Washington escalates economic pressure on Tehran. He further warned that any direct US action could trigger an even more intense confrontation.
The situation is also putting pressure on some of Iran’s major international relationships. Washington has called on countries, including China, to support efforts aimed at restricting Iran’s economy.
China, however, has criticised the US approach, arguing that sanctions alone will not resolve the wider conflict in the Middle East.
The United Arab Emirates, one of Iran’s important regional trading partners, also announced that it was suspending trade and financial transactions with Tehran until further notice.
The human side of the crisis
Behind the political warnings, economic sanctions and military threats are ordinary people, businesses and families trying to navigate an increasingly uncertain future. When countries become caught in an economic confrontation between major powers, the consequences can reach far beyond government offices and diplomatic meetings. Prices, jobs, trade, travel and everyday livelihoods can all be affected.
As tensions continue to rise, the biggest question is not only how far governments are willing to go, but how much ordinary people will ultimately have to bear.