US sanctions czar to press Japan on Iran sanctions

Russian-built Bushehr nuclear power plant, Tehran © AFP/MEHR NEWS/File Majid Asgaripour

AFP

WASHINGTON (AFP) – US sanctions czar David Cohen will travel to Japan and South Korea Tuesday, to press for further sanctions against Iran, the Treasury Department said.

Cohen, acting under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, will embark on the four-day trip as the UN atomic watchdog accused Iran of stockpiling low-enriched uranium, in defiance of multiple UN sanctions.

“Cohen will emphasize the importance of continuing robust implementation of international sanctions to prevent Iran from accessing the international financial system to facilitate its illicit nuclear and weapons program,” a statement said.

“He will also consult with our partners on next steps to increase pressure by redoubling efforts to target those entities facilitating Iran’s illicit activities, especially Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.”

The United States and the IAEA have long been pressing Tehran to answer the allegations.

Iran has dismissed evidence as being “fabricated” and “baseless,” and has refused to discuss the matter further.

Tehran denies trying to acquire a nuclear weapon.

© AFP — Published at Activist Post with license