Pakistan Rejects Unilateral US Sanctions on Iran
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Pakistan Rejects Unilateral US Sanctions on Iran
- Pakistan has declared it is not bound by unilateral sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States, asserting that only UN-mandated sanctions are obligatory.
- This statement was made on Thursday, August 27, 2026, by Pakistan Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, following new US sanctions targeting Iran.
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On Thursday, August 27, 2026, Pakistan stated it is not obligated to comply with unilateral sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States, emphasizing that adherence is only required for sanctions mandated by the United Nations. This declaration was made by Pakistan Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi in Islamabad, who asserted that Pakistan does not view unilateral US sanctions against Iran as consistent with international law. Andrabi stressed that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
This statement follows the US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s announcement on August 24, 2026, of “Operation Economic Outcast,” a new package of sanctions aimed at intensifying economic pressure on Tehran. These measures expand secondary sanctions risks for third countries engaged in business with Iran. The US has threatened “tremendous economic consequences” for any country or entity providing a “lifeline” to Iran.
Despite these warnings, Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to continuing bilateral trade with Iran, in accordance with existing agreements. Trade cooperation between Pakistan and Iran has faced challenges, including US sanctions, a trade imbalance, and issues with payment mechanisms. However, both countries have expressed a desire to expand trade, with a goal to reach $10 billion in bilateral trade. Efforts to facilitate this include formalizing a free trade agreement, easing customs procedures, and establishing border markets. In 2022, Iran’s exports to Pakistan were $1.448 billion, while Pakistan’s exports to Iran stood at $842.8 million.