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Iran Denounces Fresh US Sanctions as Violation of State Sovereignty

Tehran's Foreign Ministry has condemned new American sanctions as a return to colonial-era practices that undermine international law. The criticism marks the latest escalation in tensions between the two nations.

LSN World News · 22 August 2026

Iran Denounces Fresh US Sanctions as Violation of State Sovereignty

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei on Wednesday rejected newly announced US sanctions, characterizing them as an infringement on the sovereignty of other states and a reversion to historical patterns of domination.

Baghaei likened the measures to what he described as "full-scale classic colonialism," suggesting the sanctions extend beyond Iran to affect third parties in violation of established international norms. The remarks reflect Tehran's long-standing position that unilateral American economic pressure constitutes illegitimate intervention in the internal affairs of nations.

The latest sanctions follow escalating rhetoric from the Trump administration, which has signaled a hardline approach toward Iran policy. The Iranian government has previously challenged the legality of such measures under international law, arguing that comprehensive economic restrictions amount to economic warfare rather than legitimate diplomatic tools.

Tensions between Washington and Tehran have remained elevated following the 2018 US withdrawal from the nuclear agreement, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. The dispute over sanctions and their extraterritorial reach continues to complicate diplomatic relations between the two countries.