Iran Threatens Retaliation as US Expands Sanctions

Iran has threatened retaliation after the US expanded economic sanctions, with Tehran expressing confidence that major trading partners would resist Washington's pressure campaign. The new measures aim to "cut off Iran's economic lifeline." US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced sanctions on 60 individuals, entities and vessels Monday, but stopped short of the most punishing measures and declined to identify targeted trading partners. The list did not include Chinese financial institutions, Iran's biggest trading partner. Iranian officials dismissed the sanctions' impact, with Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh saying Tehran was "fully prepared" and warning of potential military responses. The threats come nearly six months after US-Israeli strikes on Iran, with the war showing little sign of diplomatic resolution.