The United States said Thursday it is imposing new sanctions against Iraq's neighbor, Iran.
Two top advisors to President Bush say they want to punish Iran for supporting terrorist organizations. They also want Iran to curb its nuclear ambitions.
The U.S. is acting alone — without other governments — but hopes to pressure foreign companies to comply.
These sanctions are aimed specifically at Iran's defense ministry, its Revolutionary Guard Corps and a number of banks.
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said the measures are in response to "a comprehensive policy to confront the threatening behavior of the Iranians."
She made mention of Iran spurning an offer of open negotiations, implying that the U.S. has offered to talk with Iran, but only if it suspends its nuclear activities first.
Rice says the United States remains open to "a diplomatic solution."
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