Bolton: We are ready to increase pressure on Iran if necessary
The White House National Security Advisor on Tuesday emphasized that the United States is paying attention to Iran's behavior and warned the Islamic Republic that if it does not change its behavior, the United States is prepared to increase its pressure on Iran.
On October 25, at the United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) meeting in New York, John Bolton considered the Iranian regime a constant threat to the United States and its allies, saying: "If you take any step against us and our allies and harm our citizens, if you continue your lies, tricks, and deceptions, you will definitely face very bad consequences."
Mr. Bolton said in part of his speech that the US will continue to pressure Iran until its destabilizing behavior stops, adding: "Whenever we conclude that the [Iranian] regime is expanding its enrichment activity, the United States is prepared to pursue a variety of options. Whatever is necessary and appropriate."
He noted that the US President intends to implement new sanctions against Iran on November 4, in addition to previous sanctions, and added: "Our sanctions will be severe and ruthless. This is a maximum pressure campaign."
Mr. Bolton further warned that "those who want to provide financial and banking facilities to Iran under these circumstances should prepare themselves for the risks of doing so."
These statements were made while yesterday, following a meeting of the foreign ministers of the five remaining countries in the "JCPOA" and Mohammad Javad Zarif, the parties issued a statement in which they emphasized their "commitment to pursuing specific measures" to pay the money and continue Iran's oil exports.
The statement emphasized “following up on commitments… specifically for real and effective measures to secure payment channels to Iran, and the continuation of exports of oil and gas condensates, petroleum products and petrochemicals.”
The White House national security adviser said on Tuesday, dismissing the significance of the statement: “The European Union is strong on rhetoric and weak on follow-through… We are watching the development of this structure that does not yet exist and there is no specific date for its creation. We will not allow our sanctions to be violated by Europe or anyone else.”
He continued, referring to the withdrawal of companies such as Siemens, Maersk, Hyundai, British Airways, and Mazda from Iran, and said that Swift should also follow the same path and reconsider its cooperation with Iran.
The financial system known as SWIFT monitors all international bank transfers.
Previously, on September 16, 16 Republican US senators had also called on the Treasury Department to take "all necessary steps" to expel Iran from the SWIFT financial system.
"The days of immunity are over for Tehran"
"This regime proudly chants 'Death to America' and 'Death to Israel.' We have to take their words seriously. The ayatollahs are not coming to make peace," Bolton said on Tuesday, highlighting Iran's destabilizing activities in the region, the Islamic Republic's continued ballistic missile program, and its support for proxy groups.
He went on to point to the protests in Iran last January and said: “The Iranian people deserve a better government than the current one… This country should have a vibrant and hopeful nation, with friends and partners around the world, including the United States. We look forward to the day when we can achieve this dream together, a day when Iran and the United States can begin a new friendship in peace and harmony. But until that day comes, this administration will use every tool within its legal power to protect the United States, our allies, and our people.”
The White House adviser concluded by noting: “The United States is not simple. We will no longer be fooled, deceived, or threatened. The days of impunity for Tehran and its actors are over. The deadly regime and its supporters will face significant consequences if they do not end their behavior… We are watching and we will come after you.”
Source: Radio Farda
