New sanctions being drafted against Iran

New sanctions being drafted against Iran

US Ambassador to the UN Susan Rice told reporters that the UN Security Council has made progress concerning sanctions against Iran on Friday, reports Baltinfo. Rice said that the discussions were proceeding with "significant pace and intensity" and would continue until a final decision is made. Rice said that more work is needed to come to a final decision and she could not predict when the sanctions would be drafted. Rice added that although there was “some work to do”, she expected “further progress to come".

The US and its allies have been aspiring for tougher UN Security Council (UNSC) sanctions against Iran and its nuclear program.  They are currently working on drafting new sanctions against Iran.

Of the five permanent members of the UNSC - China, France, Russia, the UK and the US - and the 10 rotating temporary members, only a permanent member can veto a resolution. To pass a resolution, at least nine votes in favor are needed.

Among the permanent members, China and Russia have expressed reluctance to support the new sanctions against Iran.