Intense anxiety is gripping Iran over the impact of the new sanctions imposed by Washington, as fears grow over a further deterioration of the country’s economic situation. The United States announced on Monday evening what is being described as an “economic stranglehold” on Iran. The scale of public anxiety is clearly visible at fuel stations across the country, where queues have been growing longer by the hour. “Of course, the sanctions affect people’s lives — citizens are suffering,” Mehdi Yazdian, a real estate agent living in the northern part of the Iranian capital, told AFP, noting that the consequences are felt by citizens regardless of their financial situation.
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Despite his concerns, the 55-year-old added: “Our people are strong. These sanctions have been going on for 47 years.” “We Iranians are not afraid of war, but I believe this war will mainly be economic and will put enormous pressure on the population — and perhaps there will be protests again,” commented Kia Farahani, a 45-year-old English language teacher.
China on Iran sanctions: We will vigorously defend our interests
China, as Iran’s primary strategic and economic ally, pushed back swiftly, warning that it would “resolutely” protect its interests in response to the United States’ announcement threatening to isolate any country that continues to support Tehran.
“Maximum pressure in the context of economic warfare does not resolve problems under any circumstances. On the contrary, it escalates tensions and conflicts, triggers spillover effects, destabilizes the global economic and financial order, and undermines the legitimate rights and interests of other countries,” said Lin Jian, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in statements made today.
“China will take all necessary measures to resolutely defend its rights and interests,” he stressed.
