Top Iranian leader dismisses effect of Western sanctions
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei says Tehran is 'immune' to measures taken against it
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iran’s top leader claimed the country is immune to Western sanctions over its controversial nuclear program and has been able to make technological advancements despite the punitive measures.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s remarks on state TV Wednesday were meant to shrug off the latest EU ban on Iranian oil sales that was imposed to pressure Tehran to halt uranium enrichment, which is a potential pathway to nuclear weapons.
The embargo went into effect July 1, adding to US-led sanctions on Iranian crude and further cutting into exports of OPEC’s second-largest producer.
The US sanctions prohibit the world’s banks from completing oil transactions with Iranian banks and further complicate Iran’s ability to conduct international commerce.
The US and its allies accuse Iran of seeking nuclear weapons, a charge Tehran denies.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.