The US Department of Commerce on Thursday blacklisted several trade companies for aiding Iran’s military programs and helping Tehran circumvent US sanctions.
A statement issued by the Commerce Department said that it was acting against entities operating in Georgia, Malaysia, and Turkey for diverting or attempting to divert US items to Iran’s military programs, according to Reuters.
The move against collaborators with Iran’s military programs coincided with the imposition of export restrictions on many Chinese companies for their role in suppressing the Uyghurs.
Meanwhile, former US officials and diplomats have called on the Biden administration to seriously consider military options to pressure Iran away from getting its hands on nuclear weapons, curb its military drone program and deter its destabilizing activities in the region.
Democratic Senator Joe Lieberman, a former US Senator, demanded that the Biden administration exists the Vienna negotiations, voicing his strong belief that it presents the best opportunity to counteract the impressions that we’re left with the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Speaking at an event organized by the National Council of Resistance of Iran, Lieberman noted that the withdrawal from Afghanistan in the “chaotic” manner that it was done had sent a message to enemies, like China and others, that US might be dwindling.
Moreover, Lieberman accused Iran of weakening Lebanon and threatening regional stability and that standing against these actions is “consistent with the priority the US gives to democracy and human rights.”
He pointed to the Iranian regime’s continued targeting of minorities and terrorizing of people.
“How can you trust a regime this?” said Lieberman, wondering how the US can pursue negotiations with Iran in Vienna with all the atrocities its regime has committed.
“We have to change course toward Iran not only to limit its threats but also to use this opportunity to tell our friends and enemies that we’re willing to be tough,” said Lieberman.
“It’s time to stop this game they’re playing with us.”
Lieberman called for being prepared to have all other options on the table, including, if necessary, joining or supporting military activities by allies.
For his part, Ambassador Robert Joseph, former Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, considered that the Biden administration seems to be paying a high price for a bad agreement.
He pointed out that millions of dollars returning to Tehran was a grave mistake and that Iran’s drone program was a reason for significant concern.
He accused Iran of using the negotiations in Vienna to buy time and continue its destruction.
“The correct decision, both politically and morally, is to support the people of Iran in their struggle for freedom and democracy,” said Joseph.
David Shedd, former Acting Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, noted that although talking with Iran was not something he opposes, the most crucial matter remains that the regime changes from within.
