Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf Confirms Lifting of Oil Sanctions, Warns US

In a significant development, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has confirmed the lifting of oil sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States, citing increased revenues from the sale of Iranian crude at higher prices. Speaking on recent developments, Ghalibaf expressed Tehran’s caution regarding potential breaches by Washington of diplomatic agreements.

“It was said that lifting sanctions was an empty promise; the sanctions have been lifted, and Iranian oil is being sold 20 percent more expensively, and the money is being deposited into our accounts,” Ghalibaf stated.

The remarks come in the context of a renewed nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), signed in 2021 between Iran, the European Union, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China. Under this agreement, economic sanctions imposed by the US in 2019 were lifted in exchange for Tehran’s commitment to curbing its nuclear activities. This year, Iran has increased exports, leading to increased revenues at higher prices.

However, echoing long-standing skepticism regarding US reliability and commitment, Ghalibaf maintained that his nation remains wary of Washington’s potential actions. “Can America break its promises? Yes, it can, and we do not trust America. We are ready for any reciprocal action; if America wants to fight, we are very good at fighting too.”

Iranian leadership, particularly President Ebrahim Raisi, has consistently stressed its determination to protect national interests amid rising US-Iran tensions. While the country maintains a measured tone on the matter, it emphasizes its preparedness to counter any perceived aggression from Washington.

Tensions between the two nations persist following several high-profile incidents, including the US drone strike that killed top Revolutionary Guards commander Qasem Soleimani in 2020 and the attack on a US drone over Syrian airspace in January of that year. These incidents have raised concerns regarding potential miscalculations that could escalate bilateral animosity.