Quote from Alex bobby on March 15, 2024, 12:40 PM

"Stakes Rise as Iran's Missile Deal with Russia Sparks Threat of Further Sanctions from Western Powers"

Washington, D.C. - In a stern message to Iran, the United States and its allies issued a warning on Friday regarding potential new sanctions if Iran proceeds with its plan to supply ballistic missiles to Russia for its involvement in the conflict with Ukraine.

For months, the Biden administration has expressed concerns about Russia's efforts to procure short-range ballistic missiles from Iran as Moscow faces challenges in replenishing its military arsenal. While there hasn't been confirmation of missile transfers from Iran to Russia, comments from Iranian officials hint at an imminent deal, causing alarm among U.S. officials.

One proposed measure among the Group of Seven (G-7) nations is the prohibition of Iran Air, the country's national carrier, from operating flights to Europe, according to a senior official from the Biden administration, speaking on condition of anonymity. The potential sanctions, described as "significant measures," are being considered by the U.S. and its allies should Iran proceed with the missile deal.

In a joint statement, G-7 leaders emphasized their readiness to swiftly respond with coordinated actions, including imposing new and substantial measures against Iran, should it move forward with providing ballistic missiles to Russia.

While Iran's U.N. Mission has asserted that there are no legal barriers to such missile sales, it acknowledged a moral obligation to refrain from weapon transactions during the Russia-Ukraine conflict to prevent further escalation.

The U.S. and Europe already maintain extensive sanctions against Iran, targeting individuals and restricting the country's access to various sectors such as trade, finance, energy, and technology. These sanctions constitute one of the most comprehensive sets imposed by the United States on any country, with thousands of individuals and entities affected.

Although U.S. intelligence has not confirmed the completion of a Russian-Iran missile deal, concerns persist as negotiations between the two countries progress. A significant moment of concern arose in September when Iran showcased a range of ballistic missile systems during a visit by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.

Efforts to impede the supply, sale, or transfer of ballistic missile-related items involving Iran have been underway, including guidance provided to private companies to prevent inadvertent support for Iran's missile development efforts.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated warnings to Iran against proceeding with the missile deal, highlighting ongoing conversations among various countries on the matter during a news conference in Vienna.

The Biden administration has consistently argued that Russia relies on Iran and North Korea for military support in the conflict with Ukraine, citing intelligence findings to support its claims.

Reports indicate that Russia has utilized North Korean ballistic missiles in the conflict, although Ukrainian officials note instances of these missiles missing their targets when deployed by Russian forces.

Moreover, the White House has revealed that Iran has provided Russia with hundreds of one-way attack drones and related equipment, along with materials for constructing a drone manufacturing facility near Moscow. While Iran initially denied supplying drones to Russia, it later acknowledged providing a limited number before the invasion of Ukraine.

In summary, the U.S. and its allies are poised to take decisive action against Iran should it proceed with providing ballistic missiles to Russia, as concerns mount over the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine.