Tehran, Iran – Web Desk: Iran’s senior leader and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has warned that global oil prices could rise further to $140 per barrel, while sharply criticizing the US Treasury secretary over policies he says are driving the surge.
In a statement, Qalibaf said that “unserious and wasteful advice” from figures like the US Treasury secretary has pushed oil prices to $120 per barrel, and expressed concern that prices could climb even higher to $140.
He also rejected the notion that US sanctions or naval blockades are affecting Iran’s oil production capacity.
“Three days have passed, but not a single oil well has dried up, nor is it likely to happen in the next 30 days,” Qalibaf said, dismissing US claims as baseless.
His remarks come after the US Treasury secretary alleged that sanctions and the naval blockade would hurt Iran’s storage and production capacity, leading to long-term consequences.
Meanwhile, global oil markets have seen significant price spikes. Brent crude surged approximately 8 percent to reach $121 per barrel — the highest level in four years.
Analysts say ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the US-Iran conflict remain the primary drivers behind the rally.
The warning from Tehran adds to growing concerns among import-dependent nations already struggling with high energy costs. Neither the White House nor the US Treasury has responded to Qalibaf’s latest statement.
