Iran: US “addicted to sanctions” on Tehran

Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. Photo: AP

Speaking to CNN, Foreign Minister Zarif said: "I believe the US has a sanctions addiction. Even under the Obama administration, the US placed more importance on maintaining sanctions that it did not lift than on fulfilling its obligations on sanctions that it did lift."

Throughout the interview, Foreign Minister Zarif maintained his belief that the nuclear deal could be restored despite criticism from the administration of US President Donald Trump.

Mr. Zarif expressed disappointment that the United States had yet to learn the lesson that sanctions were ineffective in changing the political environment in Iran.

In the interview, Mr. Zarif appeared to dismiss the possibility of future negotiations with the Trump administration, while still hoping the nuclear deal could be restored, saying pressure from European allies could persuade President Trump to change his mind.

Asked whether Iranian President Hassan Rouhani could benefit from a face-to-face meeting with President Trump, Iran's top diplomat said the previous nuclear deal needed to be respected first.