US Accused of Dividing Iran for Oil

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, has launched a sharp critique of the United States, accusing Washington of devising a strategy aimed at fragmenting Iran and seizing control of its vast oil reserves. Speaking at a press conference in Tehran on Monday, 9 March, Baghaei described the US agenda as a transparent attempt to undermine Iranian sovereignty and establish illegitimate control over the nation’s natural resources.

Baghaei stated, “The motives behind America’s actions are now as clear as daylight. Their primary goal is to weaken Iran politically and economically, and to gain unlawful access to our country’s rich energy reserves.” He emphasised that these efforts are not solely driven by economic interests but are intended to subjugate the Iranian people and erode their human dignity.

The spokesperson issued a stern warning that any attempt to divide Iranian territory or appropriate its resources would be met with firm resistance. He stressed that Iran’s government and people are committed to defending the country’s territorial integrity and natural wealth against foreign intervention.

This declaration comes amid heightened regional tensions, further straining the longstanding political and military rivalry between Tehran and Washington. Analysts note that the relationship between the two nations has been fraught since the 1979 Iranian Revolution, with disputes intensifying over nuclear development, regional influence, and economic sanctions.

Baghaei’s comments also underscore Iran’s strategic significance in the global energy market. As one of the world’s leading holders of oil and gas reserves, Iran occupies a pivotal role in global energy security. The country’s energy assets are a major factor in its geopolitical importance, particularly in the context of Middle Eastern power dynamics.

The table below summarises Iran’s key energy resources:

Experts warn that the US-Iran standoff could have wider implications beyond bilateral relations, potentially affecting regional security and the global energy market. Observers argue that diplomatic engagement remains the most viable path to reduce tensions and prevent escalation, given the high stakes surrounding Iran’s sovereignty and resource wealth.

In summary, Baghaei’s statements reflect Tehran’s determination to resist external pressures and safeguard its national interests, highlighting the ongoing complexity of US-Iran relations in a region already marked by volatility and competition for strategic influence.