Iran Criticizes US for Revoking Oil Export License

The Iranian Foreign Ministry has expressed strong condemnation of the US Treasury Department's recent decision to revoke its license for Iranian oil exports. This action, described as a gross violation of Article 10 of a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending military conflict, has raised significant concerns in Tehran. The ministry's statement emphasized that the revocation, which was enacted on July 8, further illustrates the unreliability of the US government in international agreements. Iran's officials warned that they will take any necessary measures to protect their national interests and security in response to this decision.

The US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced the suspension of a general license for Iranian oil exports, replacing it with a new directive that prohibits new transactions and mandates that all existing deals be finalized by July 17. This development follows a memorandum signed remotely by Iran and the US on June 18, which was intended to facilitate negotiations over the Iranian nuclear issue and US sanctions. The memorandum also set a timeline for the US to lift its naval blockade and for Iran to restore shipping operations through the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian Foreign Ministry's statement reflects a deepening tension between the two nations, as they navigate complex diplomatic waters amid ongoing military and economic pressures.