Iran has condemned plans by the United States to impose new sanctions, warning that the measures could further damage its economy and affect key trading partners, including China.

Iranian officials described the planned sanctions as unlawful, while US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has promised what he called the toughest sanctions in history.

China, which buys most of Iran’s exported oil, has urged diplomacy.

The development comes as oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz remain severely disrupted following months of conflict between Iran, the US and Israel.