EU sanctions on Iran to harm European economy

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Ramin Mehmanparast, said that the new European Union (EU) sanctions against the Islamic republic would further destabilize the already-worsening European economy, Press TV reported Wednesday. The EU reinforced its fresh sanctions against Iran on Monday, including banning import of natural gas from Iran "over lack of progress in nuclear talks." EU, however, also stressed a diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear issue while urging the country to "comply with all its international obligations." Mehmanparast said that the restrictions contravene the international law and regulations, including the freedom of trade and financial transactions between countries, according to Press TV. The EU insistence on using "threadbare and uncivilized tools" instead of diplomacy and negotiations based on mutual respect will only further complicate the matters at hand, he said. "This approach will not only fail to help resolve issues, but will also have a negative impact on the European economy at the time of present economic crisis and the Europe should be ready to face its consequences," Mehmanparast added. Iran has gained experience in dealing with the West's sanctions over the past three decades, Mehmanparast said, adding that the country will not forego its interests under the pressure and will keep up its "peaceful" nuclear energy program in line with its inalienable rights. Mehmenparast said Tuesday that unilateral sanctions by Western countries against Iran are "illegal", "illogical" and are " inhumane." According to the Western states, their sanctions on Iran are conducted under the pretext of the nuclear issue of the Islamic republic, Mehmenparast said, adding that this is just an "excuse" to pressure Iran. If someday the nuclear issue of the country is concluded, the West will pressure Iran using other excuses, he maintained. The West has been accusing Iran of secretly developing nuclear weapons under civilian disguise, a charge that has always been denied by Tehran.