Tehran, 14 March (H.S.): Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi sharply rebuked the United States on Saturday, accusing Washington of hypocritical oil policies amid escalating tensions in the region.

Araghchi's pointed criticism, posted on X, highlighted what he described as a rapid reversal in U.S. strategy toward Russian crude exports. He claimed the White House, after months of pressuring India to halt Russian oil imports, is now urgently pleading with global buyers—including New Delhi—to increase purchases following the outbreak of war with Iran just two weeks ago.

The minister's remarks come against a backdrop of intensified U.S.-Iran hostilities, dubbed Operation Epic Fury by American forces, which has seen retaliatory strikes and aerial incidents across the Middle East. Araghchi further alleged that European nations, by supporting what he termed an illegal war on Iran, expected U.S. backing against Russia but now face shifting priorities.

This rhetorical thrust underscores Tehran's narrative of Western inconsistency, particularly as U.S. military operations strain resources and global energy markets react to disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Indian-bound LPG tankers navigating the strait amid reported blockades have heightened concerns over supply chains.

Araghchi's statement amplifies Iran's defiance, coinciding with reports of a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft crash in Iraq—confirming all six crew members dead in a non-combat incident during support for anti-Iran operations. While U.S. Central Command insists no hostile fire was involved, Tehran-linked militias have claimed credit, fueling propaganda on both sides.

The foreign minister's words signal Tehran's intent to exploit perceived U.S. vulnerabilities, portraying the conflict as a catalyst for Washington's desperate energy maneuvers. As the war enters its third week, such barbs may complicate diplomatic off-ramps amid mounting casualties and economic pressures.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar