Iranian President Admits Sanctions Severely Harming Economy

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi acknowledged for the first time that U.S. sanctions are significantly damaging the country's economy. Speaking on state television, Raisi stated, "There are those who say sanctions have no effect at all; to these people, I really don't know what to say." He described the situation as akin to being in a state of war, requiring acceptance of wartime conditions.

Raisi reported that Iran's exports and imports have declined by 25% to 35% in recent months due to the sanctions and the U.S. naval blockade. He warned that if the sanctions continue, the country could face severe difficulties.

Amidst these economic pressures, Israeli security officials are concerned that a cornered Iran might resort to military action against American targets in the Middle East or against Israel. Consequently, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the U.S. military are intensifying their operational planning and intelligence cooperation.