Iran: EU oil sanctions 'unfair' and 'doomed to fail'

The measures would not prevent Iran's "progress for achieving its basic rights", foreign ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast said.

The sanctions ban all new oil contracts with Iran and freeze the assets of Iran's central bank in the EU.

The EU currently buys about 20% of Iran's oil exports, BBC News reports.

"European officials and other countries which are under America's political pressure... should consider their national interests and not deprive themselves of Iran's oil to help US officials achieve their secret aims," Mr Mehmanparast added.

He accused the US of trying to create "problems with energy supply requirements in countries which are America's economic rivals".

US President Barack Obama has welcomed the EU sanctions, saying they show international unity against the "serious threat" posed by Iran's nuclear programme.

Details also at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-16693484