Iran condemns US revocation of oil sanctions waiver, calls it "clear violation" of Islamabad MoU
Tehran, July 8
Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday strongly condemned the United States' decision to revoke a temporary suspension of sanctions on Iranian oil sales, calling it a "clear violation" of Article 10 of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding signed on June 18.
In a statement, the ministry said, "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran strongly condemns the US Treasury's move to lift the temporary suspension of the embargo on Iranian oil sales, which is a gross violation of Article 10 of the Memorandum of Understanding to End the War and holds the US government responsible for the consequences of this breach of promise."
The ministry said the decision, announced less than 20 days after the signing of the agreement, reflected what it described as Washington's "malicious intentions, instability, and unreliability."
It further alleged that the US had committed repeated violations of various provisions of the memorandum, either directly or "through the actions of the Zionist regime against Lebanon."
According to the statement, Iran had sought to implement its commitments under the agreement in good faith since the MoU was signed.
"Since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding... the Islamic Republic of Iran has tried in good faith and using all its capabilities to fulfill its obligations... However, the US government, as usual, has simultaneously violated its obligations and sought to justify them with various excuses," the ministry said.
Warning of consequences, the ministry stated, "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, while warning of the consequences of America's breach of the agreement, will take any action it deems necessary to protect its interests and national security."
Meanwhile, the United States launched a series of military strikes against Iran in response to attacks on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
In a post on X, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said, "U.S. Central Command forces have begun launching a series of powerful strikes against Iran to impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent civilians in an international waterway."
CENTCOM said the strikes were carried out after Iran allegedly attacked three commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, adding that "Iran's demonstrated aggression was unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire."
Meanwhile, several explosions were reported near Sirik and Qeshm in southern Iran, while Iranian state media also reported blasts east and west of Bandar Abbas. Iranian media said multiple explosions occurred at Sirik port after projectiles struck commercial and fishing piers, according to Al Jazeera.
Earlier on Tuesday, the US Treasury Department cancelled a licence issued in June that had temporarily allowed Iran to produce, sell and deliver crude oil and related products through August 21, increasing pressure on Tehran amid ongoing negotiations over a final settlement to the conflict.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial chokepoint for global oil supplies, and this escalation is terrifying. As an Indian, our energy security is directly impacted. We need a stable Middle East, not more strikes and sanctions. Both sides need to de-escalate immediately. 😟
India has always advocated for peaceful resolution of conflicts. This US action seems to undermine the very MoU they signed. But Iran also needs to ensure commercial shipping is safe. The civilian casualties in these strikes are worrying. This is not how diplomacy should work.
It's clear the US wants to renegotiate terms under pressure. But calling it a "violation" is strong language. The attacks on commercial vessels are unacceptable under any agreement. International waters must remain safe for trade. India should mediate here—we have good relations with both sides.
Yaar, this is exactly what happens when major powers use economic coercion as a weapon. The oil sanctions waiver was a small step towards peace, and now it's gone. Meanwhile, innocent civilians in Iran and commercial crews suffer. We need the UN to step in before this spirals. 🙏
The timing is suspicious—less than 20 days after signing? This feels like a calculated move. Iran's response to strike back is predictable but dangerous. As a country that values strategic autonomy, India should use its diplomatic channels to bring both sides to the table. War benefits no one.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.