By Maria Ortiz
Apr 18, 2024, 8:54 PM EDT
The Biden administration on Thursday announced new sanctions against Iran’s missile and drone program after its attack on Israel in the last weekend.
President Joe Biden said in a statement that the sanctions speak to the commitment he and his fellow leaders of the Group of Seven major industrialized countries (G-7) made to collectively increase economic pressure on the Iranian government.
Biden noted that US allies were imposing more sanctions and additional measures in an effort to limit Iran’s military programs.
The United Kingdom also announced sanctions on Thursday against Iranian military figures and organizations, and European Union leaders said they would increase sanctions against Iran.
“Let it be clear to all those who allow or support Iran’s attacks: the United States is committed to Israel’s security,” Biden said. “We are committed to the safety of our staff and partners in the region. And we will not hesitate to take all necessary measures to hold you accountable.”
The Treasury Department said Thursday that The United States targets 16 individuals and two entities that enable Iran’s drone production, including the types of engines that powered the unmanned aerial vehicles used in the weekend attack.
Iran launched more than 300 missiles and drones at Israel on Saturday night in response to an Israeli airstrike in early April that killed several Iranian military officers in Damascus, Syria. Most of the drones and missiles were intercepted by Israel, with help from the United States.
After the attack, Biden consulted with other Group of 7 leaders to condemn the attack and develop a diplomatic response, including developing new sanctions.
Biden and other leaders They have called on Israel to exercise restraint after the weekend attack, hoping to avoid a broader regional conflict. The United States and other countries have said the successful interception of the Iranian bombing was a broad demonstration of Israel’s military superiority.
Israel, however, has not yet said how it will respond. The country’s war cabinet met periodically this week without announcing any definitive action.
Keep reading:
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