On Wednesday, the US Treasury Department announced a new round of sanctions aimed at restricting Iran’s economic activities. The measures target five individuals, four entities, and nine vessels. Additionally, the US Financial Crimes Enforcement Network issued an administrative subpoena to a Greek bank, signaling an investigation into potential financial ties between the institution and Iran. The sanctions specifically implicate a Panama- and Greek-based law firm, reflecting a broader US effort to disrupt maritime and financial networks supporting the Iranian government.

In response to the ongoing pressure from Washington, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the situation during a ceremony for Iran’s National Export Day. According to the Fars news agency, Pezeshkian claimed that despite US sanctions, many countries continue to cooperate with Iran. He also leveled sharp criticism at former US President Donald Trump, accusing him of threatening to seize Iran’s oil and gas resources. Pezeshkian stated that Iran would not permit such actions, framing the resistance against US policy as a matter of national sovereignty.

While the US Treasury focuses on the technical enforcement of financial restrictions, the Iranian leadership is framing the sanctions as a failed attempt to isolate the country. The two reports highlight a persistent disconnect: the US is actively tightening its regulatory grip on Iranian trade, while the Iranian government maintains that these efforts have not successfully curtailed their international economic partnerships.