'Lift sanctions and we'll export ACs': Iran's 'friendly suggestion' to Europe amid severe heatwave

Iran has a cool offer for Europe that is currently battling a severe heatwave: lift sanctions to get air conditioners in return.

In a "friendly suggestion" made to European countries, the Embassy of Iran in Turkey said, "Given the unprecedented heatwave across Europe and the tragic loss of innocent lives reportedly linked to the lack of adequate cooling systems, we have a friendly suggestion: For the sake of protecting your own people, lift the sanctions on Iran. We are ready to export a wide range of air conditioners and cooling equipment to Europe."

It added that despite sanctions, Iran has been able to manufacture air-conditioning units and is ready to export them to the countries grappling with heatwaves.

"And here's the good news: despite years of sanctions, Iran has successfully developed and manufactured its own air conditioners using indigenous technology. We have the expertise, the production capacity, and we're ready to help—if Europe is ready to help itself," it added.

More from World

After a scorching June, Spain and France are bracing for another possible heatwave that could make the temperature go as high as 44C over the upcoming days. It is pertinent to note that the figures show that June’s extreme heat was responsible for more than 2,000 excess deaths in just these two European nations.

According to Spain’s meteorological agency, Aemet, a mass of dry and very hot air would bring persistently high temperatures to much of Spain from Saturday, adding that the temperatures in parts of the south-east could hit as high as 42C to 44C on Tuesday.

“Temperatures will begin to rise over the weekend, and we can’t rule out another heatwave,” said Rubén del Campo, an Aemet spokesperson. The agency also noted that the high temperatures could increase the likelihood of forest fires next week and warned that older people and those with cardiovascular problems must take extra care in the daytime heat.