US sanctions on Iran are a key component of Washington's foreign policy towards the Middle Eastern nation. These sanctions are a form of economic punishment imposed by the United States government on Iran in response to various issues, including Iran's nuclear program, human rights violations, and support for terrorism.
There are different types of US sanctions on Iran, including primary and secondary sanctions. Primary sanctions target US individuals and entities from engaging in certain transactions with Iran. Secondary sanctions, on the other hand, target non-US individuals and entities that conduct business with Iran, thereby restricting Iran's access to the global economy.
Washington can impose more sanctions on Iran through various means. One common method is through executive orders issued by the President of the United States. These executive orders can expand the scope of existing sanctions or introduce new ones targeting specific sectors of Iran's economy.
Congress can also play a role in imposing sanctions on Iran by passing legislation that authorizes the government to take specific actions against Iran. Additionally, the US Department of the Treasury, specifically the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), plays a crucial role in implementing and enforcing sanctions on Iran.
Overall, US sanctions on Iran are a complex and multifaceted tool used by Washington to exert pressure on the Iranian government and influence its behavior on the international stage. The imposition of sanctions is often a contentious issue, with debates surrounding their effectiveness, humanitarian impact, and diplomatic implications.