Iranian President: US Pressure Yields 'Nothing' Gains

Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian warned Wednesday that the United States will gain "nothing" from its new economic pressure against the Islamic Republic, following Washington's threat of "asphyxiation." The US announced Monday a new sanctions package to "cut off all economic resources" to Iran and threatened to isolate countries continuing support for Tehran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated the measures mark "economic asphyxiation of this regime." Pezeshkian, considered a moderate figure, acknowledged Iran faces "numerous economic difficulties" but insisted Washington would achieve nothing, just as it gained nothing during the war. Israel welcomed the US statements, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejecting any deal with Iranians. Tehran demands the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for ending the war and lifting the US blockade of Iranian ports. Iran and Oman are negotiating a framework agreement for a temporary corridor through the strait, though Iran's Revolutionary Guards accuse Washington of obstructing the talks. Oil prices fell sharply Wednesday, with Brent crude dropping 2.18 percent to $86.65 per barrel, as markets bet on progress at Hormuz.