The President of Iran, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, has sharply criticised the measures imposed by what he described as “bullying powers” – urging for reconciliatory discussions in light of the US’ announcement that it is to impose military sanctions. According to the Islamic Republic News Agency, Mr Ahmadinejad stressed: “Most of our enemies have been forced to admit our strength and recognize Iran's legitimate rights”, adding: “Only one or two bullying powers are against us but to no avail.''

The US government has claimed that Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps is participating in a programme to develop terrorist weapons. Consequently, the new sanctions freeze US assets within Iran’s armed forces, and absolutely prohibit US firms from taking part in business transactions with Iran’s leaders.

Iran Rejects Terrorism Claims Behind Sanctions

Iran denies accusations linking it to terrorism, and has pushed aside claims that it is looking to manufacture a bomb that includes nuclear technology. Despite demands issued by the United Nations that it ceases enriching uranium, Iran is continuing with this programme – highlighting how, contrary to the US’ perception, it is intended for the energy industry.

Speaking to the media, Condoleezza Rice – the US Secretary of State – described the intention of the sanctions as “to increase the costs to Iran of its irresponsible behaviour”. She added: “We and our partners remain fully committed to a diplomatic solution with Iran”.

However, Iran "continues to spurn our offer of open negotiations", through continued nuclear involvement, in which it is "building dangerous ballistic missiles", Ms Rice emphasised. Furthermore, Iran was said to be backing the work of militant groups in Iraq, Lebanon, Afghanistan and other locations.

The freeze on financial assets affects Iran’s prime Bank Melli, a number of companies with links to Iran’s armed forces and several individuals – among them, Iranian Air Force commanders.

The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, likened the approach taken by the US towards Iran to a "madman waving a knife". `

"Why drive the situation into a dead end?", he added.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Political Correspondent

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