Iran's Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad has acknowledged that the country has "faced challenges" due to the US blockade of its ports, but says it has taken countermeasures.
Paknejad did not specify what measures had been taken in his comments to state television.
"During the 40 days of the war, our production did not decrease and the export process was favorable. Of course, in the days after the American blockade, we faced challenges, but measures were taken and this process continues," he said.
He added that "the enemy is full of illusions."
A recent US intelligence report also suggested that Iran had the capability to withstand the blockade, at least for the next few months.
The CIA analysis, which we reported on Saturday, said Iran would not suffer severe economic pressure from the blockade of its ports until the end of the summer, and that America's influence over Tehran was limited.
Iran has repeatedly demanded that Washington lift the blockade as part of any peace deal.
