October Decision Biden Decision Raises Eyebrows
The Iranian military’s “unprecedented” direct missile assault on Israel on Saturday resulted in tense relations between the US and Iran. In the aftermath of the attack, critics pointed out that the Biden administration has not taken any steps to extend sanctions on Iran’s drone and ballistic missile production, despite its terroristic actions against Israel.
For years, the United Nations Security Council had imposed restrictions on Iran’s weapons program as part of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), also known as the “Iran nuclear deal.” Its signatories, which included the US under the Obama administration, had chosen October 18, 2023, as the expiration date for these sanctions, expecting Iran to comply with the agreement.
However, Iran has consistently violated the JCPOA since its signing in 2015. Most recently, it expelled International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors in November and has been enriching uranium at levels not consistent with peaceful purposes. This violation prompted the US to implement new sanctions on individuals and organizations with connections to Iran, backed by a joint statement signed by dozens of countries in October.
The expiration of the UN sanctions on October 18 also came shortly after an Iran-backed terror attack on Israel, carried out by Hamas. A spokesperson for Hamas even admitted that they had “direct backing” from Iran. The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed that over 300 missiles and drones were launched towards Israel, resulting in minor damage and one casualty. The Iranian government subsequently allowed street celebrations in Tehran to take place to commemorate the failed attack.
The Biden administration has not taken any action to “snap back” the UN sanctions or renew them through protocol. Instead, it has issued statements condemning Iran’s actions and vowed to “utilize every tool at our disposal” to counter its weapons program. The statement released on October 18 also focused on Iran’s support of other terrorist groups, rather than its own capabilities. In response to the attack, Israel has promised to build a regional coalition to hold Iran accountable.
The US and Israel share a strong alliance, and many Israelis have expressed disappointment in the Biden administration’s lack of action. They worry that the removal of sanctions will allow Iran to freely arm terrorist organizations, such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. This concern is especially heightened in light of Iran’s recent threats against Israel in response to a military operation that resulted in the elimination of seven Iranian terrorists.
Many experts also warn that the lack of action from the US could embolden Iran to continue its terroristic activities, as it sees no repercussions for its actions. The expiration of the UN sanctions has left a void in holding Iran accountable for its weapons development. However, some argue that the Biden administration may be taking a different approach to dealing with Iran, as it continues discussions to revive the JCPOA.
The UN sanctions’ expiration has also raised concerns within the international community regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Some experts believe that Iran could now potentially arm its missiles with nuclear warheads without facing any consequences. This could further destabilize the already fragile region and heighten tensions between Iran, Israel, and other countries.
The tension between the US and Iran is nothing new, but the recent attack on Israel and the expiration of sanctions have brought it to the forefront once again. Many are closely watching to see what actions the Biden administration will take next and if they will work towards reenacting the UN sanctions. Meanwhile, Israel continues to defend itself and seek support from its allies in the region and around the world. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this latest development will affect the already complicated relationship between the US and Iran.