EU tightens financial noose on Iran, Syria

FRANCE: European Union foreign ministers on Monday agreed tough sanctions against Iran, aimed at forcing a breakthrough in talks on Tehran’s nuclear programme, and also the regime in war-ravaged Syria.

“This is a sign of our resolve,” said British Foreign Secretary William Hague of the Iran package.

“That we will step up the pressure, we will intensify the pressure and we will continue to do so over the coming months unless negotiations succeed.” The new package targets EU dealings with Iran’s banks, shipping and gas imports.

Details on those targeted will be released Tuesday but a government minister is on the new blacklist, diplomats said.

Washington welcomed the accord as further strengthening “international efforts to pressure and isolate the Iranian government.

“Rallying the world to isolate Iran and increase the pressure on its leadership so that they stop pursuing a nuclear weapon has been a top priority” under President Barack Obama, White House spokesman Jay Carney said.

AFP