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Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif blasted the US decision to call off waivers to Iran`s oil clients. describing it as economic terrorism and a sign of Washington`s desperation.
`Escalating economic terrorism against Iranians exposes panic and desperation of (the) US regime — and chronic failures of its client co-conspirators.` Zarif posted on his twitter account on Tuesday.
He addressed US President Donald Trump and his administration which have called on Iran to change its foreign policy. saying. `Inheritors of ancient Persian civilization don`t base strategy on advice of foreigners — let alone Americans.`
The White House said on Monday waivers for China. India. Japan. South Korea and Turkey would expire in May. after which they could face US sanctions themselves.
This decision is intended to bring Iran`s oil exports to zero.
Iran insisted the sanctions were illegal and that it had attached `no value or credibility` to the waivers.
Oil prices surged to a nearly six-month high after the Trump administration said it would end waivers that allow countries to import Iranian oil.
Japan and South Korea are heavily dependent on foreign oil. specially from Iran. and Pompeo said the administration had been trying to find alternatives. But Monday`s move could strain relations – already tested over issues of trade and US policy towards North Korea – with these close allies.
It`s an even bigger problem for India. which is also under American pressure to cut oil purchases from Venezuela. Iran is one of Delhi`s main oil suppliers. But India also has deep cultural and political ties with Tehran. which make it difficult to join the US attempts against the country.
China is Iran`s other big customer: it has slammed the US decision. saying its trade is perfectly legal. and the US has no jurisdiction to interfere. The question is whether Beijing will try to skirt sanctions through companies not tied to the US financial system.
Turkey was most outspoken in lobbying for a waiver extension. Ankara argues that it badly needs the oil. that as a neighbor it can`t cut ties with Iran. and that the pressure campaign won`t work anyway.
