2nd LD: Iran vows to counteract fresh U.S. sanctions

Iran will counteract the fresh U.S. sanctions imposed against some Iranian and non-Iranian entities under the pretext of being linked with Iran's missile program, Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Friday.

The fresh sanctions are "inconsistent with the U.S. commitments and in contradiction with the spirit of the UN Resolution 2231," the statement added.

"Developing missile capabilities of the country, which is solely designed for defensive purposes and carrying the conventional weapons, is the international right of the Iranians based on the UN charter," it said.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated that any foreign intervention in this regard is a violation of the international law.

Iran's security is non-negotiable and "the Islamic republic will counteract any measure which targets the national interests of the Iranians," it said.

"Iran will also exercise legal restrictions on some U.S. individuals and companies who have the role in formation of and assistance to the extremist and terrorist groups in the region," it said, adding that the names of these entities will be announced shortly.

The U.S. on Friday announced sanctions on multiple entities and individuals involved in Iran's ballistic missile program and providing support to a military force in Iran.

The move came days after Iran launched a ballistic missile test, which drew a stern warning from Washington.

The U.S. Treasury Department said in a statement that the action reflects the U.S. commitment to enforcing sanctions on Iran with respect to its ballistic missile program and "destabilizing" activities in the region, and is fully consistent with the U.S. commitments under the nuclear deal with Iran. Endit