The United States government has issued a new memorandum outlining a strategy to exert maximum pressure on Iran. The directive, addressed to key members of the President's cabinet and other high-ranking officials, emphasizes the need to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to counter its influence in the region.
According to the memorandum, "Iran remains the world’s leading state sponsor of terror," with connections to groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and al-Qa’ida. The document accuses Iran of targeting U.S. nationals globally through various means, including cyber-attacks and physical threats.
The memorandum holds Iran accountable for several recent incidents, including attacks by Hamas and continued aggression by Houthi forces against naval operations in the Red Sea. It also highlights concerns about Iran's nuclear program, stating that "Iran today stands in breach of its Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty obligations."
In response, the memorandum outlines a series of actions aimed at increasing pressure on Iran. These include imposing sanctions through the Department of Treasury and launching diplomatic efforts led by the Secretary of State to isolate Iran internationally. The United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations is tasked with working alongside allies to reinstate international sanctions against Iran.
The Attorney General is directed to pursue legal measures against Iranian networks within the U.S., while also taking steps to identify Iranian assets domestically and abroad. Efforts will be made to prosecute individuals involved in terrorism-related activities funded by Iran.
The memorandum concludes with general provisions ensuring that these directives do not override existing laws or create enforceable rights against the U.S. government.