US announces toughest sanctions on Iran, Tehran vows retaliation

Tehran has warned that it will retaliate against any nation that joins the United States in its latest set of economic sanctions aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear program. The Iranian foreign ministry issued a statement on Thursday, saying that the country would take “countermeasures” against foreign firms and governments that comply with the new U.S. restrictions.

The U.S. measures, announced in a joint statement by the Treasury and the State Department, target Iran’s oil exports, shipping operations and key banking entities. They also extend sanctions to foreign companies that facilitate the transfer of technology or equipment to Iranian nuclear facilities. Tehran’s officials said that the sanctions could trigger reciprocal actions, including sanctions on U.S. businesses and diplomatic reprisals against countries that support the embargo.

The threat underscores the growing risk of a broader economic confrontation. Analysts note that any retaliation could strain U.S. relations with its allies and complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The situation remains fluid as both sides weigh the potential costs of escalating sanctions.