Kathmandu— Iran has warned neighboring nations that it will view them as enemies and target their interests if they participate in a United States effort to cripple its economy, according to statements made by Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. The warning follows escalating economic threats from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, who announced plans for what he called “the most crushing economic operation” against Iran as part of ongoing hostilities between the two countries. Tehran also criticized the incoming US measures as an assertion of “extraterritorial sovereignty”.

Escalating Threats and Regional Strategy

Mohsen Rezaei detailed a three-stage regional strategy beginning with de-escalation efforts and negotiation with neighboring countries, stating Iran’s preference to separate them from the U.S. “with pleasant language.” He indicated that any nations continuing to align with Washington would be given an opportunity to reconsider before Iran takes action. Rezaei suggested the Trump administration hopes economic pressure will destabilize Iranian society and lead to internal unrest.

Economic Warfare and Alternative Routes

The U.S. has imposed significant economic sanctions on Iran, and President Trump has pledged “tremendous economic consequences” for any country offering Iran support. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent echoed this sentiment with a stark ultimatum: “You’re either with us or against us.” Control of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane, remains a key point of contention, as Iran previously disrupted traffic through it, causing prices for goods like oil and fertilizer to surge. Rezaei warned that Iran would target alternative oil-shipping routes if regional states participate in the U.S.’s economic warfare plans.

Stalled Negotiations and Potential Expansion

Negotiations aimed at ending the conflict have stalled after a June 17 memorandum of understanding (MoU) – which called for an “immediate and permanent termination of military operations” – failed to yield results. Iran has reportedly considered expanding its potential targets beyond the Middle East, with reports suggesting it could strike U.S. allies in Europe who support Trump’s policies.

Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs decried the incoming US measures, and the situation remains tense as both countries continue to pursue opposing strategies.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.