Clinton Delays Executive Order on Iran Trade Ban

President Clinton has delayed issuing an executive order to ban US trade with Iran, considering tougher sanctions instead. The decision comes amidst growing pressure from the Jewish community and members of Congress to further punish Iran for its terrorist activities. The proposed order has sparked criticism, with some arguing that it would allow US companies' foreign subsidiaries to continue trading with Iran as long as no Americans are involved in the decision-making process.

Key Takeaways:

• The executive order to ban US trade with Iran has been delayed due to consideration of tougher sanctions.
• Industry sources expect President Clinton to issue the order or announce stricter sanctions this weekend.
• The proposed order would allow US companies' foreign subsidiaries to trade with Iran as long as no Americans are involved in the decision-making process.
• Some in the Jewish community and members of Congress have been pushing for tougher sanctions, including banning foreign firms that trade with Iran from trading with the US.
• Sen. Alfonse D'Amato (R-N.Y.) and Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.) have introduced legislation to impose tougher sanctions.
• Oil executives are waiting for the administration to issue the order or provide more clarity on the Iranian trade embargo.

Statistics:

• 30-day adjustment period discussed for severing financial and contractual ties with Iran.
• 60-day adjustment period requested by oil companies to sever ties with Iran.
• 70% of oil executives oppose the 30-day adjustment period and favor immediate withdrawal from Iran.
• 1 industry source expects President Clinton to act on the matter this weekend.

Sources:

• Industry sources (no specific names mentioned)
• American-Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC)
• World Jewish Congress
• Sen. Alfonse D'Amato (R-N.Y.)
• Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.)
• The State Department
• The White House (no specific quotes or presence mentioned)