Iran warns allies of consequences in US sanctions standoff

Iran warned Monday of "consequences" for countries joining the US economic pressure campaign, calling the measures an admission of defeat by Washington. The warning came ahead of expected new US actions to isolate Iran's economy. Foreign ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaï issued the threat during a weekly press conference, while deputy minister Kazem Gharibabadi challenged US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's narrative that Iran's military and nuclear capabilities were dismantled. US Treasury Secretary Bessent announced an offensive to cut Iran's remaining economic lifelines. China, Iran's strategic partner, criticized the US sanctions approach. The UAE suspended trade with Iran, and Tehran reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed until US commitments under a June memorandum are fulfilled.