The Iranian Foreign Ministry has accused the United States and the European Union of “disturbing the balance and security of the world energy market” with their sanctions on Iran.
The Islamic Republic News Agency reports that Foreign Ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast criticized the U.S. and the EU for their “irresponsible actions” in imposing sanctions on Iran which, according to Mehmanparast, could directly affect the would economic crisis.
“In addition to the political and diplomatic consequences of this action, the U.S. and the European Union must be prepared to deal with problems such as the deepening of the financial and economic crisis and the spread of protests,” Mehmanparast was quoted as saying.
He accused the West of fomenting tension instead of trying to build trust in the nuclear negotiations.
He stressed that Iran stands by its approach of “nuclear weapons for no one and peaceful use of nuclear energy for all,” saying: “The people of Iran will not retreat under political pressure and threats; instead, such policies will result in their unity against the enemy and promote their self-sufficiency.”
The EU oil embargo took effect yesterday. In January, the EU announced that in an attempt to stop Iran’s nuclear program, it would stop buying Iranian oil and providing insurance for Iranian oil shipments starting July 1, 2012.
Iran insists that its nuclear program is peaceful and that it has a right to it.
Nuclear talks to resolve the disputes with Iran have been ongoing. The world powers have met three times since April to reach an agreement. While they have agreed to meet again in Istanbul this month, they have not made any significant breakthroughs so far.
