The nature of American-sponsored sanctions was spelled out publicly for the first time yesterday by Israeli officials who had taken part in the meetings.
The sanctions would focus at first on curbing Iran’s ability to import petrol. Although the country has one of the largest oil deposits in the world, it has limited refining capacity. General Jones said 67 US senators had so far signed on to such sanctions.
The Americans are also proposing financial sanctions, including the banning of insurance on trade deals with Iran which would make it difficult for Iran to conduct trade. Sanctions may also be imposed on any company in the world that trades with Iran.
If these steps do not work, Washington may go to the next stage, which includes banning Iranian ships from Western ports and Iranian planes from landing at Western airports.
Washington is forging its list of sanctions with Germany, France and Britain. Russia and China have rejected such steps.
General Jones reportedly told the Israelis that Mr Obama would soon visit China and try to persuade its leaders to join in.
