Exclusive: Iran's Zarif speaks about US sanctions, Saudi 'assassination plots', and an Arab NATO

TNA: Regarding oil, do you believe waivers given out by the US administration to eight nations have allowed the purchase of Iranian oil under acceptable conditions?

Zarif: We have stated before that the US cannot bring Iranian oil exports down to zero and this was proven right. The US will not be able to bring down exports dramatically either, because Iran has the ability to export its oil and the global market needs it. Iran will prove to everyone that it will remain strongly present in this market in the future.

TNA: According to reports, Iranian aircraft will not be able to refuel in Lebanon and Turkey. Are there US pressures in this regard, and to what extent will you be able to overcome them?

Zarif: We have many ways to ensure our flights continue operating and we intend to use them. We have tried and tested them before and we will use them again. The Americans cannot stop Iranian flights or block the movement of Iranian tankers at sea.