Iran Central Bank Chief Admits Oil Exports Have Plunged to Zero Amid Intense US Pressure

Iran is currently exporting no oil, the country’s central bank chief has revealed, warning of tightening restrictions on foreign exchange reserves blocked by the US. Abdolnaser Hemmati stated that Tehran is facing severe economic limitations on oil exports as Washington ramps up financial pressure while diplomatic efforts remain at a standstill.

“There is no doubt that we have restrictions on oil exports,” Mr Hemmati said during a broadcast on state television. The Central Bank of Iran governor noted that conversations with overseas counterparts confirmed revenue from oil sales had dropped to zero.

While government and central bank officials prepared for the loss of oil revenue, Mr Hemmati cautioned that constrained access to foreign exchange raises serious concerns regarding Iran's ability to fund essential imports. The ongoing crisis is compounded by inflation, currency depreciation, energy shortages, and strict sanctions.

Meanwhile, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran's Parliamentary Speaker, addressed public concerns by calling for national unity in the wake of previous nationwide protests driven by declining living standards. Acknowledging that public economic grievances are justified, Mr Hemmati and Mr Ghalibaf both warned against actions that could spark further unrest or weaken national cohesion.

In Washington, US President Donald Trump announced what he termed the “most crushing economic operation ever taken” against Iran, threatening unprecedented isolation and severe economic consequences for any entities supporting Tehran.