Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement on additional sanctions for Iran:
“We must not sit by while the Iranian regime continues its provocative and aggressive behaviors, including recent tests of ballistic missiles. I am concerned that as implementation of the JCPOA moves forward, the Administration has not taken steps to hold Iran accountable for its actions and to demonstrate that there will be swift consequences for violations of the JCPOA.
“A panel of experts reported to the UN Security Council that Iran’s launch of a medium-range rocket in October constituted a violation of UN Security Council Resolution 1929, as did similar launches in 2012 and 2013. Under UNSCR 2231, which endorsed the JCPOA, the restrictions on Iran’s development of ballistic missiles under UNSCR 1929 remain firmly in place until the deal is in effect. These continued provocations are an indication that we must continue to distrust and verify Iran’s actions.
“Chinese and Russian obstructionism is blocking UN Security Council action, so I urge the Administration to sanction the individuals or entities responsible for this violation. I am concerned that although Treasury prepared new designations, they have not been formally announced and implemented. I also believe we should work with our European partners to develop a common understanding of what potential Iranian violations of the JCPOA will beget what consequences, so that time is not wasted if and when Iran violates that agreement.”
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