Iran: US sanctions are 'terrorism'

"The unjust and illegal sanctions imposed by the United States against Iran are a clear act of terrorism,"AFPquoted Iranian President Hassan Rouhani as saying today at a conference on terrorism and regional cooperation attended by representatives from Afghanistan, China, Pakistan, Russia and Türkiye.

"We are facing a comprehensive attack that not only threatens our independence and identity but also undermines our long-standing relations," Mr. Rouhani declared.

President Rouhani said that when the US imposed sanctions on Iran, all countries with representatives attending the event would certainly be affected. He affirmed that Iran would "not accept such insolent behavior".

Relations between the US and Iran have been tense since President Donald Trump withdrew the US from the Iran nuclear deal in May and reimposed sanctions on the country. He said the deal was a mistake because it did not include provisions to prevent Iran from developing ballistic missiles or supporting proxy wars in Syria, Yemen, Lebanon and Iraq.