Israel and the United States are discussing the feasibility of curbing Iran’s imports of gasoline and other refined oil products if Teheran refuses to enter negotiations over its nuclear program, an Israeli official was reported by Reuters as saying on Monday.
US Secretary of State Hillary…
American officials refused to say whether they were considering such a move, which would represent an escalation of existing sanctions against the Islamic republic and hit the average Iranian in the pocket.
The Israeli official, however, speaking on condition of anonymity, said a possible gasoline import ban “has been discussed for a long time” between the allies, but that policymakers in Washington were concerned Teheran’s response could have implications for global oil markets.
Iran has threatened to retaliate against a cutoff of its gasoline imports by stopping its crude oil exports to Western countries. The country could also disrupt oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. About 17 million barrels of oil a day pass through the strait.
