In response to the recent attack on Israel by Iran, US lawmakers are expected to propose bills this week to tighten sanctions on Iran, the third-largest oil producer in OPEC. The attack prompted Republican leaders in the US House of Representatives to criticize President Joe Biden for not enforcing current sanctions more strictly. Congressman Steve Scalise mentioned that the Biden administration’s leniency has made it easier for Tehran to sell oil, potentially funding terrorist activities.
The Biden administration has been trying to restore the JCPOA nuclear agreement with Iran but has faced challenges in doing so. One of their strategies to prevent Iran from selling oil abroad involves punishing businesses in China, the UAE, and other countries. However, tensions between Hamas and Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip also contribute to Washington’s efforts to prevent conflict from spreading in the region.
Despite affirming that sanctions remain in place, the administration faces challenges in taking strong action against Iran due to concerns about rising oil prices and strained relations with China. While there is a desire to hold Iran accountable and prevent further attacks, striking a balance between addressing security concerns and economic stability remains a key challenge for the Biden administration in the aftermath of the attack on Israel by Iran.