UN Steps Up Mideast Pressure
Russian UN ambassador Vitaly Churkin has warned Iran to “carefully weigh the meaning” of yesterday’s new round of sanctions, passed as an increased measure against that country’s unwillingness to give up uranium enrichment.
Resolution 1747 was unanimously adopted by the group of six world powers (China, Russia, the United States, Britain, France, and Germany) and freezes the accounts of 13 companies and 15 individuals, imposes visa restrictions, bans Iranian arms exports, urges a return to negotiations, and threatens further sanctions within 60 days if not complied with.
Iran has been offered a restart of negotiations and been promised aid in peaceful nuclear development if it accedes to the resolution.
There is evidence that Iran is not expected to follow the strictures of Resolution 1747. Israel is reportedly preparing for war with Syria, Iran’s ally, this summer, and Bush administration officials have made clear that they are prepared to go further if necessary.
I do not expect Iran to give up it’s program of enrichment, and I believe that Bush and his cronies want a war with the Islamic Republic in any case. This resolution has only given them a stronger argument for launching one. Even if Iran backs down on this issue, a way will be found.
Look for a preemptive strike this summer, with Israel invading Syria while the US simultaneously attacks Iran.
While Congress dithers, the administration pushes forward with ambitions of expanding the exploitative terror war.
