Tehran: Iran's Petroleum Minister Mohsen Paknejad has criticized US President Donald Trump's "maximum pressure" campaign, asserting that efforts to reduce Iranian oil exports to zero are an unrealistic ambition. Paknejad's comments come in response to the renewed US campaign aimed at exerting economic pressure on Iran.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Paknejad described the "maximum pressure" strategy as a previously tested policy that has failed to yield results. He emphasized Iran's progress towards self-sufficiency in various sectors, particularly in the oil industry and the development of oil and gas fields. Paknejad's remarks underscore Iran's resilience in the face of external economic pressures.

The US President recently signed a presidential memorandum to reinstate the "maximum pressure" campaign, a policy he initiated during his first term. Trump acknowledged the contentious nature of the decision, expressing his internal conflict over the move. Despite signing the memorandum, he indicated a willingness to pursue a diplomatic resolution with Iran, expressing hope for a potential deal. However, he also stressed the necessity of maintaining a firm stance, highlighting the strategic importance of the campaign.