U.S. Response to Iran’s Missile Attack
The United States announced plans to impose new sanctions on Iran’s missile and drone program with response to iran’s recent attack on Israel. The move comes as United States allies are about to join in taking similar actions against Iran.
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan revealed the decision following signals from Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell indicating their offices were actively considering punitive measures.
Iran attacked with over 300 missiles, drones, and rockets on Israel by last weekend, citing retaliation for an attack on Tehran’s consulate in Damascus. Although most projectiles were intercepted, minimal damage occurred.
Jake Sullivan stated
“In the coming days, the United States will roll out new sanctions targeting Iran, including its missile and drone program,”.
He emphasized the anticipation of allied nations imposing their own sanctions to exert pressure on Iran. These forthcoming sanctions aim to sustain pressure on Iran’s military capabilities and address its problematic actions, Sullivan added.
International Efforts Against Iran’s Aggression
US authorities have employed economic tools to counter Iran’s activities, focusing on disrupting its drone and missile programs, as well as its support for groups like Hamas, which attacked Israel earlier.
Yellen highlighted the destabilizing impact of Iran’s actions on regional stability and the potential economic spillovers. She affirmed the Treasury’s commitment to collaborating with allies to disrupt Iran’s malign activities, including terrorism financing.
Moreover, Yellen hinted at additional measures, indicating ongoing efforts to limit Iran’s oil exports and exploring further options to disrupt terrorist financing.
The United States seeks cooperation from G7 partners and China to restrict Iran’s access to goods essential for weapon production. A senior Treasury official emphasized engaging with major global suppliers to achieve this goal.
Meanwhile, in Brussels, Borrell disclosed proposals for expanded restrictive measures against Iran, stressing the urgency to avoid escalating tensions further.
Sullivan reiterated Washington’s resolve, highlighting over 600 sanctions imposed on Iran-linked individuals and entities connected to terrorism, human rights abuses, and support for proxy groups.
He affirmed the continuation of coordinated actions with allies, partners, and Congress to hold Iran accountable for its destabilizing actions.
The looming sanctions underscore a unified international response against Iran’s aggressive behavior, aiming to deter future provocations and promote regional stability.
Christina Johnson is a proud born and raised Torontonian. Christina has worked as a journalist for nearly a decade having contributed to several large publications including the Yahoo News and the Financial Post. As a journalist for White Pine Tribune, Christina covers national and international developments.