EU strengthens sanctions against Iran

[News_Editor]

EU strengthens sanctions against Iran

2011-05-23 21:26:40 GMT+7 (ICT)

BRUSSELS (BNO NEWS) -- The European Union on Monday strengthened the restrictive measures previously imposed against Iran due to concerns to its nuclear program.

The European Council adopted a legislation to place a number of additional names on the lists of designated persons and entities subjected to EU autonomous measures (travel restrictions and assets freeze).

In addition, it also suspended the application of the travel restrictions for one individual. Overall, over one hundred additional individuals and entities associated with Iranian proliferation-related activities were sanctioned.

"The UK has played a key role in securing the addition of over a hundred new entities to EU sanctions lists because of Iran’s refusal to address the international community’s concerns," said UK Foreign Secretary William Hague.

Both the United States and the United Kingdom welcomed the decision of the European Union to expand its sanctions on Iran as long as it refuses to fulfill its international obligations.

"The United States welcomes the decision of the European Union to expand its sanctions on Iran," said White House Press Secretary Jay Carney. "So long as Iran refuses to fulfill its international obligations, the international community will respond by continuing to hold Iran accountable, implement fully all UN Security Council resolutions, and aggressively counter Iranian proliferation activities."

The entities mentioned in the EU's list included banks, individuals, shipping entities, engineering companies and organizations owned and controlled by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.

"Today's action will help to prevent Iran from acquiring material and finances for its illegal activity," added Hague. "Until Iran recognizes that it must engage in constructive talks we will continue to take further steps."

In June 2010, the United Nations Security Council imposed a fourth round of sanctions against Iran over its nuclear program. The measures cited the proliferation risks of its nuclear program and its continued failure to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Iran has repeatedly claimed that its nuclear program has always pursued peaceful means and said it is a civilian path to provide sufficient energy to its growing population, as fossil fuel would eventually run dry.

"The United States remains fully committed to the peaceful resolution of international concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear program," concluded Carney.

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