NEWARK, NJ - U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez (D-NJ), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued this statement following the Administration's announcement to sanction companies for helping Iran evade sanctions.

"It is a losing strategy for companies to assist Iran in evading sanctions and today's announcement serves as a warning: Cease this illicit activity immediately or face severe consequences. Increased sanctions from encouraging further reductions in energy sector purchases from Iran, to prohibitions on trade with all dual-use items that can be used in their nuclear program will result if Iran continues to stall. The Supreme Leader must understand that everyday going forward will result in increased economic hardship unless Iran changes course immediately."

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