Iran warns countries against joining US economic pressure campaign

Iran openly challenged a US threat of a massive economic pressure campaign on Monday, warning countries against joining the initiative. Washington calls it the "largest financial offensive ever organized against an adversary." US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent outlined the plan in the Financial Times, claiming America dismantled Iran's military capabilities and buried its nuclear program. Iran's deputy foreign minister rejected the narrative, while the foreign ministry warned participants would face consequences. The conflict began with US-Israeli strikes on February 28, followed by an April 8 ceasefire. Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz and insists it stays closed until Washington lifts sanctions and unfreezes assets.