The US and EU consider imposing more sanctions on Iran for attacking Israel. Treasury Secretary Yellen plans action soon, while EU's Borrell confirms bloc's efforts in addressing the issue.
Israel is calling for sanctions on Tehran's missile program, as United Nations sanctions on the program ended in October. The US, EU, and UK kept sanctions and added new ones. Lt Gen Herzi Halevi of the Israeli military stated that Iran's attack on Israel will not be ignored. Over 300 missiles and drones from Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen were launched at Israel, with most intercepted.
Tehran stated that the strike was reprisal for what is suspected to be an Israeli airstrike on its consulate in Syria on April 1st, which resulted in the deaths of thirteen individuals.
Israel is responding to Iran's missile program with diplomatic efforts, urging over 30 countries to impose sanctions. It is also calling for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to be designated as a terrorist organization, a move the US has made but the UK has not.
Yellen, US Treasury Secretary, announced on Tuesday the plan to impose additional sanctions on Iran in the near future to disrupt terrorist financing. She mentioned that all options, including targeting Iran's oil exports, are being considered. The US is currently using financial sanctions to isolate Iran, disrupt its funding of proxy groups, and support for Russia in Ukraine by targeting over 500 entities and individuals.
Current US sanctions on Iran prohibit most American trade with the country. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan announced new sanctions targeting Iran's missile and drone program, Revolutionary Guards, and the Iranian defense ministry. He expects allies and partners to impose their own sanctions. The goal is to pressure Iran, degrade its military capabilities, address problematic behaviors, and maintain confrontational actions.
The chief diplomat for the EU, Mr. Borrell, stated that certain member states had requested the enlargement of sanctions against Iran.
He declared that he would "start the necessary work related to the sanctions" by requesting that the EU's diplomatic service initiate the necessary steps.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz expressed support for the adoption of sanctions in a post on X. World leaders are calling for restraint to prevent further escalation in the Middle East. US President Joe Biden, a strong supporter of Israel, advised Israel to claim victory and avoid further escalation. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak cautioned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against escalating tensions, emphasizing the importance of calmness. The leaders are working to prevent increased insecurity in the region.
The G7 countries are coordinating a diplomatic response regarding Iran's warning of severe retaliation if its interests are threatened. Iranian President Raisi warned against any action that could lead to a painful response. Russia, a key ally of Iran, also called for restraint to prevent further confrontation and catastrophic consequences in the region. Vladimir Putin emphasized the importance of all sides showing reasonable restraint in a phone call with President Raisi.
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