U.S. applauds Japanese sanctions against Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. (BNO NEWS) — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Friday said the U.S. welcomes the announcement by Japan of new sanctions on Iran that implement UN Security Council 1929.

“They mark a significant step forward in the international community’s efforts to combat proliferation and prevent Iran’s development of nuclear weapons,” Clinton said “Japan joins other responsible nations that have also implemented such sanctions on Iran for its failure to meet its international obligations, including the European Union, Australia, Canada, and Norway.”

Japan has maintained cordial in its relations with Iran, which is on of the Asian country’s most important suppliers of crude oil. However, it had also warned on numerous occasions that Tehran’s neglection of UN resolutions would prompt strong actions.

On Friday, Japan established tighter sanctions against Iran, banning new investment in energy development, restricting financial dealings and freezing the assets of people and institutions linked to Tehran’s “nuclear activities”.

Clinton said the U.S. considers Japanese sanctions on Iranian entities and individuals appropriate, which include many banks such as Bank Mellat, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines.

“These sanctions – combined with Japan’s establishment of a financial authorization system for all transactions with Iran, prohibition of the transfer of proliferation sensitive dual-use items to Iran and of any new investment or sale of goods, services, and technology to Iran’s energy sector – will deepen Iran’s isolation from the international financial, industrial, and energy sectors and protect Japanese banks and businesses from Iran’s ongoing efforts to conduct illicit activities,” Clinton said

The Secretary of State stated that Japan’s actions underscore the international resolve “to present Iran’s leaders with a clear choice: Meet your international obligations and enjoy the benefits of integration into the global system or continue to reject your responsibilities and face growing isolation and consequences.”

“We have made an unprecedented effort to reach out to Iran, and we remain committed to a diplomatic solution to international concerns regarding its nuclear activities. We believe that additional pressure on Iran’s leaders is the best way to reach that goal.”

Clinton went on to say that the U.S. is encouraging other states to follow Japan’s example and impose robust measures in support of the international community’s efforts.

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