Tehran, July 5 (IANS) Sanctions against Iran have nothing to do with the country’s nuclear activities or human rights record, there are other motives behind the bans, said Leader of Iran Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.

Addressing a group of university professors and researchers on Saturday night, Ayatollah Khamenei said those who have imposed sanctions on Iran were themselves the ones who foster terrorism and commit human rights violations, reports Press TV.

The Leader said the sanctions against Tehran have been imposed because Iran has emerged as a nation, a movement and an identity guided by principles against the hegemonic system.

“Their objective is to prevent Iran from reaching a prominent civilizational status,” Khamenei said.

The Leader also highlighted the special role of professors in educating a generation of self-reliable, confident and diligent youths who will further move Iran toward progress.