Approval of Sanctions Bill Against Iran's Missile Program by the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee

Reports indicate that the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee approved a new sanctions bill against Iran's missile program on Thursday, October 12. This bill was presented to the committee by Ed Royce, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Titled 'Iran Ballistic Missiles and International Sanctions Enforcement Act', it targets individuals and entities associated with Iran's missile program. Ed Royce stated in a statement: 'This important bill requires the government to conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify and determine companies, banks, and individuals inside or outside Iran that assist Iran's missile and conventional weapons program and impose sanctions against them.' Royce also emphasized that there is no doubt the United States must take serious actions to limit Iran's dangerous efforts in ballistic missiles. Eliot Engel, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, also expressed support for expanding sanctions against Iran's missile program during the committee meeting. Engel, however, addressed the potential action of the U.S. President regarding the non-certification of Iran's compliance with the nuclear agreement, stating: 'Yesterday afternoon, we learned through the media that General Herbert McMaster, the White House National Security Advisor, and Rex Tillerson, the Secretary of State, spoke with Republican congressional representatives regarding the government's plan towards Iran.' He continued: 'I would like to know why the sanctions that Congress approved in August and became law with the President's signature have not been implemented yet. There is a lot of talk from the White House, but the only action taken is the non-certification of Iran's compliance with the nuclear agreement.' Engel stated: 'I agree with Ed Royce that we must vigorously enforce the sanctions we have imposed so far.' This congressman's reference is to the approval of the Iran and Russia sanctions bill on July 24 of this year in the House of Representatives. Initially, this bill was known as the 'Countering Iran's Destabilizing Activities Act' and imposed sanctions on Iran for its development of ballistic missiles, support for terrorism and militia groups, and human rights violations. However, later, congressional representatives added sanctions against Russia to this bill. In this context, Royce called for strict oversight of the Iran nuclear agreement. Nikki Haley stated: 'Iran should not be allowed to take the world hostage with the nuclear agreement.' Trump stated: 'I don't think Iran is adhering to the spirit of the nuclear agreement.' The U.S. State Department emphasized 'countering all threats from Iran.' The Defense Secretary stated that the government is increasing Iran's missile capabilities. Trump reiterated the violation of the 'spirit' of the JCPOA and 'creating problems in the Middle East' by Iran. Qasemi denied a Reuters report: 'Iran's missile program is non-negotiable.'