Iran has downplayed the potential impact of Donald Trump’s apparent victory in the U.S. presidential election, dismissing concerns over heightened sanctions on the Islamic Republic.

Trump, who unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and imposed severe sanctions on Iran during his first term, is on course to reclaim the presidency after defeating Vice President Kamala Harris in a close race.

Iranian government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani stated on Wednesday that the outcome of the U.S. election holds little relevance for Iran, as Tehran’s policies toward the U.S. remain constant regardless of the administration in Washington. “The election of the U.S. president has nothing to do with us,” Mohajerani told reporters, emphasizing that Tehran has planned ahead for any potential new sanctions.

“More than five decades of sanctions have hardened Iran, and we are not worried about Trump’s re-election,” she continued, adding that Tehran sees “no difference” between Trump and his rival, Harris. Mohajerani also expressed confidence that sanctions have bolstered Iran’s internal resilience and claimed that Iran is well-prepared to handle any further economic restrictions imposed by the U.S.

Trump, who officially became the 47th U.S. president on Wednesday, is the first leader in over a century to win non-consecutive terms. His comeback follows a tumultuous period in office, including two impeachments, attempts to overturn his 2020 election loss, and ongoing criminal investigations. He will also make history as the oldest U.S. president to serve and the first to hold office while facing criminal charges.

Mohajerani’s comments reflect Iran’s longstanding view that U.S. policies towards Tehran remain unchanged across administrations, and she reiterated Iran’s intention to withstand further pressure amid potential new sanctions. (ILKHA)