US adopts more aggressive posture on Iran

Published: 4 February 2017

Last updated: 4 March 2024

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (the nuclear deal) between Iran, the five permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany does not address Iran’s ballistic missile programme. UN Security Council Resolution 2231 calls on Iran ‘not to undertake any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches using such ballistic missile technology.’ That language is nonbinding. Tehran has repeatedly stated that it has no plans to design missiles capable of delivering atomic weapons. When Iran tested a ballistic missile in January 2016, Obama ordered sanctions on 11 entities and individuals. Trump has now doubled that to 25.

Iran confirms missile test, denies breach of nuclear deal - The Times of Israel 01.02.17
Iranian defence minister says ‘action was in line with boosting Iran’s defence power,’ while foreign minister warns US not ‘to create new tensions’

After Trump says Iran 'playing with fire,' White House imposes fresh sanctions - Eric Cortellessa/AP – The Times of Israel 03.02.17
Treasury unleashes new penalties targeting 13 individuals and 12 companies.

US setting up a confrontational approach with Iran – Adam Schreck – The Times of Israel 03.02.17
Trump administration is immediately taking a more aggressive posture, at least rhetorically, on Tehran’s missile tests and regional aggression.

And see:

The Iran nuclear deal – one year after implementation January 17, 2017

Is Iran still Israel’s top threat? March 12, 2016

Iranian missile test violated Security Council resolution December 19, 2015