Iran Press/Iran news: "We know that calling for dialog & peace is an existential threat to B-Team. And since reason for designating me is my words, would "US persons" need OFAC license to "engage" with me by reading my writings or listening to interviews?," Iranian FM Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted.
The US administration has imposed sanctions on Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, in the latest effort by Washington to ratchet up its 'maximum pressure' campaign against Tehran.
Trump administration has been increasing pressure on Iranian nation through sanctions, including measures that prevent Iran from selling oil. The US is apparently trying to persuade Tehran to come to the negotiating table to strike a deal to replace the 2015 nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action JCPOA that Trump unilaterally withdrew from last year.
Zarif's designation also came the same day he announced Iran was 'ready for dialogue' with Saudi Arabia. The offer came after Zarif recently met with his Omani counterpart Yusuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah,and after Iranian President Hassan Rouhani received Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi and the joint meeting whcih was held between coast guard officials from Iran and the UAE.
Related news:
US imposes sanctions on Iran's foreign minister: Treasury statement
The US Treasury Department also said in its statement that Zarif is Iran's "primary spokesperson around the world," and that the ban "is sending a clear message that Iran's recent behavior is completely unacceptable.
One Month ago, Washington took the dramatic step of sanctioning the Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei. At that time, the US administration signaled that it was also considering imposing sanctions on Zarif.203/209
Read more:
Sanctions on Zarif 'most ridiculous steps': Obama coordinator
Iran's Rouhani: So-called Super Power afraid of Zarif interview
