Islamic Republic Officials Welcome US Action to Reduce Economic Sanctions Against Iran

Islamic Republic officials have welcomed the US decision to suspend some financial sanctions against Iran in order to expedite aid delivery for the victims of the devastating earthquake last Friday in Bam. Kamal Kharrazi, the Foreign Minister, stated that this decision will allow Iranians residing in the US to quickly send their cash donations to their compatriots in the earthquake-affected region. In a statement published by the Islamic Republic News Agency, Kharrazi mentioned that US sanctions against Iran were essentially futile and that their permanent removal would create a new atmosphere in the relations between the two countries. Other Iranian officials have described the US action as positive and noted that it could help improve bilateral relations. On Thursday, Mohammad Reza Khatami was quoted saying that Washington's decision is a step towards building trust. Mohammad Reza Khatami, the Deputy Speaker of the Islamic Consultative Assembly and brother of President Mohammad Khatami, told Reuters in a phone interview that Washington shows interest in resolving issues. Another official, Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, stated that the US has been sending positive signals to Iran for several months. When asked if these signals could indicate Washington's willingness to restore relations with Tehran, he expressed uncertainty but noted that Iran would have to examine the matter more closely.