United States President Barack Obama refused to sign the proposed extension of sanctions against Iran for another 10 years, but didn’t veto it either, thus letting it become law, the Associated Press reported on Thursday.
The U.S. Senate passed the bill with 99 out of 100 votes, despite Obama having earlier expressed opposition to prolonging the sanctions. "Consistent with this longstanding position, the extension of the Iran Sanctions Act is becoming law without the president's signature," White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest stated.
Yesterday, Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani ordered further development of nuclear-powered ships in response to the U.S. not respecting the agreement reached last year when Iran said it will downsize its nuclear program in order for the sanctions to be lifted in return.
Earnest pointed out Obama can still waive the sanctions if Iran fulfills its part of the deal, as well as “reimpose” them if Iran continues with its nuclear program.
Image: EPA / Michael Reynolds
