Trump's Iran strategy sanctions IRGC, decertifies deal

'What is the purpose of a deal that, at best, only delays Iran’s nuclear capability,' president says

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - President Donald Trump on Friday laid out his new strategy for addressing what he termed Iran's "destabilizing activities", issuing new penalties against Iran's Revolutionary Guards and saying he will not certify the landmark Iran nuclear deal.

Presidents are required under U.S. law to certify the Iran deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), every 90 days. Trump had until Sunday to make the certification, but said "we cannot and will not" take the action.

“What is the purpose of a deal that, at best, only delays Iran’s nuclear capability for a short period of time?” Trump asked rhetorically during a White House address.

Trump further announced sanctions on the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps, calling it the "Iranian Supreme leader’s corrupt personal terror force and militia”.

He said Iran's military organization plotted to bomb a restaurant in Washington DC., but it is unclear what incident he is referring to.

Kaynak: