Iran’s Foreign Ministry said Thursday, Aug 1, possible new U.S. sanctions will not change Tehran’s nuclear policy, but could complicate talks with world powers, The Associated Press reports.

The reaction followed the U.S. House passage of calls to tighten sanctions on Iran’s oil sector, which already is under major pressures from Western economic measures seeking to rein in Iran’s nuclear program.

The U.S. plan now moves to the Senate.

Iranian state TV quoted Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Araghchi as saying sanctions will not stop the country’s nuclear advance.

Araghchi claimed the new American proposals could set back efforts at dialogue.

Iran and world powers seek to resume talks after Sunday’s swearing-in of moderate President Hassan Rouhani, who has urged for more international outreach.

The West fears Iran seeks to develop nuclear arms. Tehran denies the charge.