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| UAE Seizes North Korean Weapons Shipment to Iran |
| 2009-08-28 |
| The United Arab Emirates has seized a ship carrying North Korean weapons bound for Iran, in violation of a United Nations arms embargo, diplomats said. The UAE two weeks ago notified the UN Security Council of the seizure, according to the diplomats, who spoke on condition they arenÂ’t named because the communication hasnÂ’t been made public. The council committee that monitors enforcement of UN sanctions against North Korea wrote a letter to Iran asking for an explanation and one to the UAE expressing appreciation for the cooperation, the envoys said. No response has been received or further action taken, they said. The UAE and Iranian missions to the UN didnÂ’t immediately respond to requests for comment. The Financial Times reported the weapons seizure earlier today. The Security Council voted on June 12 to adopt a resolution that punishes North Korea for its recent nuclear- bomb test and missile launches through cargo inspections and enforcement of restrictions on financial transactions. The measure calls for the interdiction at seaports, airports or in international waters of any cargo suspected of containing nuclear or missile-related materials going to or from North Korea. Iran is under three sets of UN sanctions for its refusal to halt uranium enrichment, a process to isolate a uranium isotope needed to generate fuel for a nuclear power reactor or, in higher concentrations, to make a weapon. Iran denies allegations by the U.S. and some of its major allies that it seeks an atomic weapon or the means to build one, insisting the nuclear work is intended to generate electricity. U.S. President Barack Obama has said the Iranian government must respond by late September to his request for new talks on curbing its nuclear program. Iran last month said work is under way on proposals that may provide the basis for renewed talks. |
| Posted by:Frank G |