WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States is renewing waivers for Japan and 10 European countries for their efforts in the Iran oil sanction program.
Secretary of State John Kerry announced the waivers Wednesday, saying the international community remains committed to maintaining pressure on the Iranian regime until it fully addresses concerns about its nuclear program.
Wednesday's action means the 11 countries have been given a reprieve from the part of the sanctions requirements that cuts off countries from the U.S. financial system.
Kerry noted in a statement that European Union countries have a full embargo on Iranian crude and said Japan has significantly reduced the volume of its purchases.
Kerry has to reconfirm compliance every six months.
©2013 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
