Iran Threatens Gulf Nations Supporting Upcoming US Economic Sanctions

Iran warned neighboring Persian Gulf states on August 22, 2026, against supporting an upcoming United States economic isolation campaign, threatening military retaliation and a total shutdown of regional oil exports if neighboring nations cooperate with Washington's measures.

The ultimatum follows announcements from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding an unprecedented economic operation against Tehran, as the military conflict between the two nations reaches its six-month mark following initial strikes on February 28.

Iranian leadership indicated a strategic pivot toward proactive confrontation, warning that any country assisting American trade restrictions will face direct repercussions aimed at their domestic and maritime economic interests.

"Any country that becomes a partner in creating economic restrictions against us will be regarded by us as an enemy," said Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

Rezaei outlined a multi-stage response strategy involving initial diplomatic outreach before launching military strikes, while asserting that Tehran would prevent alternative export routes outside the Strait of Hormuz from operating.

"Of course, we will first negotiate with them. We will hold talks and tell them to step aside and distance themselves from the United States," said Rezaei, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

The security chief emphasized that non-compliant nations would face severe disruption to their energy logistics.

"But if they do not act, we will strike. We will target that country's interests," said Rezaei, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

Washington maintains that its policy aims to force complete economic isolation on Tehran, with the U.S. Treasury Department scheduled to details the new sanctions framework on Monday.

"This is going to be the greatest coordinated economic isolation in the history of the world. And we are going to them and saying you are either with us or against us," said Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary.

Responding to American pressure, Iranian officials rejected claims that foreign economic measures would destabilize the government or force a political collapse in Tehran.

"The enemy had assessed that if Iran falls, it will become Venezuela. Not only did it not happen, but it became a power that amazed the world with its resistance, solidarity and cohesion," said Masoud Pezeshkian, President of Iran.

Regional foreign policies reflect growing friction, as the United Arab Emirates suspended all trade dealings with Iran last week, while China criticized the sanctions approach and called for diplomatic negotiations.