Iran indicated it would take retaliatory action in response to expanded U.S. sanctions announced Monday by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. According to Reuters, Iran's Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh stated that Tehran is "fully prepared for the U.S. sanctions" and characterized the measures as an economic attack, signaling the country intends to deploy its own countermeasures.
Madanizadeh's remarks underscore escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran over the administration's tightened economic pressure. "Our defense is no longer so defensive; the enemies should wait for an attack," the minister said, suggesting Iran may pursue more aggressive economic or diplomatic responses rather than purely defensive postures.
The exchange marks the latest round in the ongoing dispute over U.S. policy toward Iran, with the Treasury Department's latest sanctions targeting sectors crucial to Iran's economy. The Iranian government's combative response indicates little prospect for near-term de-escalation in the bilateral relationship.