“This measure by the US runs counter to the spirit of the agreements [reached between Iran and world powers] as well as the confidence-building process,” Rouhani told a press conference on Saturday.

He described the sanctions as “illegal and non-constructive,” adding that the embargoes will not harm negotiations in principle, but will cast doubt on the sense of “sincerity and trust” in the course of talks.

The president stressed that the Iranian nation will not remain silent in the face of the sanctions and will find a way to resist them.

“These sanctions are illegal and infringe upon the Iranian nation’s rights and we should forcefully resist this infringement [on our rights],” he said, adding that restrictions on medical supply to Iran amount to "crimes against humanity."

Rouhani also said Iran will continue talks on its nuclear program with the six world powers, stressing that a final deal over Iran’s nuclear program can be reached if the opposite side is "sincere" and does not have "excessive demands."

On Friday, the US imposed sanctions on over 25 Iranian individuals and companies, including shipping firms, oil companies, airlines and six banks.

The sanctions come as Iran and the five permanent members of the UN Security Council – the United States, France, Britain, Russia and China – plus Germany are in talks to reach a final agreement aimed at resolving the standoff over Tehran’s civilian nuclear work.

The two sides signed a historic interim deal in the Swiss city of Geneva last November. The agreement entered into force on January 20 and expired six months later. In July, Tehran and the six countries agreed to extend their negotiations until November 24 in a bid to work out a final accord.

The next round of talks between Iran and the six countries will be held in New York in September.

RA/SHI