This photo released on Nov 5, 2019, by the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran shows centrifuge machines in Natanz uranium enrichment facility in central Iran. (PHOTO / ATOMIC ENERGY ORGANIZATION OF IRAN VIA AP)

TEHRAN — The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) said Thursday that the recent blacklisting of two Iranian nuclear scientists is a "desperate" attempt by the United States to counter Iran's progress, according to official IRNA news agency.

"Such measures cannot quiver the resolve of the Iranian youth" for the supreme goal of the country, according to the statement carried by IRNA

"Desperate attempt and unwise measure of the US policymakers to sanction two Iranian nuclear scientists is an indication of unceasing hostile approach of Washington against the Iranians," the AEOI said in a statement.

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"Such measures cannot quiver the resolve of the Iranian youth" for the supreme goal of the country, according to the statement carried by IRNA.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday that Washington was imposing sanctions on two Iranian scientists, Majid Agha'i and Amjad Sazgar, who he claimed were leaders of Iran's nuclear enrichment program.

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