The White House has announced plans to impose fresh sanctions on Iran, specifically targeting Tehran’s missile and drone program. This decision comes in response to what White House national security advisor Jake Sullivan described as an “unprecedented” air attack on Israel by Iran.
Sullivan outlined that these new sanctions, slated to take effect “in the coming days,” will focus on entities supporting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Iran’s Defense Ministry. The aim is to exert pressure on Iran and contain its military capabilities, particularly following its recent assault on Israel.
President Joe Biden (Credits: The White House)
Over the weekend, Iran launched more than 300 missiles and drones at Israel, a response to an Israeli airstrike in April that resulted in the deaths of several Iranian military personnel in Damascus, Syria. While Israel managed to intercept the majority of the drones and missiles, the attack heightened tensions in the region.
Sullivan emphasized that President Biden is collaborating with allies, including G7 nations, and bipartisan leaders in Congress to craft a comprehensive response. He indicated that other countries are expected to follow suit with their own sanctions against Iran.
President Joe Biden (Credits: CNN)
The United States has a history of imposing sanctions on Iran as part of efforts to prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons and to apply economic pressure. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen underscored the gravity of Iran’s actions, warning of potential economic repercussions.
Yellen referenced not only the recent attack on Israel but also previous incidents like the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, emphasizing that Iran’s actions pose a threat to regional stability. She highlighted the Biden administration’s prior imposition of sanctions on groups linked to Iran as part of its broader strategy to counter Iranian influence and terrorism.
