Defense minister: Iran considers US sanctions part of ongoing war

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, August 25, 2026

Iran’s acting defense minister condemned recent U.S. sanctions targeting about 60 entities as part of a broader conflict aimed at destabilizing the country’s economy and public security. The remarks highlight Tehran’s intent to escalate countermeasures while China, Iran’s major trade partner, has pledged to oppose the sanctions and protect its interests, complicating U.S. efforts to enforce financial isolation.

Iran’s acting defense minister has characterized the recent U.S. sanctions against the country as part of a broader ongoing conflict targeting Iran’s economy and public security. Brigadier General Seyyed Majid Ibn al-Reza issued the warning in an online statement Tuesday, emphasizing that economic stability, public welfare, and national security are integral components of Iran’s defense strategy.

“Any pressure that targets the livelihoods and security of the people is part of the war,” Ibn al-Reza said, cautioning that Iran would respond by expanding its countermeasures within the framework of national interests if further efforts to intensify pressure continue.

The remarks followed a new wave of sanctions imposed by the United States on Monday, aimed at curbing Iran’s global financial networks. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the measures, which target approximately 60 entities, individuals, and vessels identified as facilitating Iranian trade. The updated sanctions extend risks of secondary sanctions to multiple sectors including digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping.

China, Iran’s largest trading partner, responded on Tuesday by condemning the sanctions and reaffirming its commitment to protecting its interests in the face of what it described as efforts by Washington to enforce the “economic asphyxiation” of Iran. Foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated that cooperation between China and Iran operates within international law and should not be disrupted.

“China has already stated many times that it firmly opposes illegal unilateral sanctions,” Lin said during a regular news briefing. “China will take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard its own rights and interests.”

The new sanctions and subsequent reactions underscore the escalating tensions surrounding Iran’s economic relations amid ongoing geopolitical disputes. Tehran’s framing of economic pressure as an element of warfare signals a hardened stance in the face of intensifying U.S. efforts to isolate the country financially. Meanwhile, China’s vocal opposition highlights the challenges Washington faces in enforcing sanctions that affect global trade partners.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.