'Lift sanctions, we're ready to ... ': Iran's 'AC suggestion' to Europe amid heatwave

Iran has offered a "friendly suggestion" to Europe to deal with its deadly heatwave saying that it was ready to export air conditioners and cooling equipment if European nations first lift sanctions imposed on Tehran."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," Iranian embassy in Turkey said in a post on X.It further said that Iran had developed a domestic air-conditioning industry despite years of sanctions."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. The remarks come as Europe reels under one of its most severe heatwaves on record. France, the Netherlands and Belgium have recorded a combined 3,700 excess deaths during the June heatwave, with authorities cautioning that the figures are preliminary and could rise further, Reuters reported.France was the worst-hit, recording 2,025 excess deaths during the heatwave. French health minister Stephanie Rist said there was a particularly sharp increase in deaths among people aged over 45.According to experts, the heatwave, which lasted from June 20 to June 28, was among the worst ever recorded across Europe. The soaring temperatures disrupted power generation, damaged infrastructure and put immense pressure on healthcare systems across several countries.Catch the latest world news and top headlines. Download the TOI App.