Major powers plan vote on Iran sanctions on Mar 24

United Nations, Mar 23: Major powers negotiating UN sanctions against Iran intend to put their draft resolution to a vote on Saturday after rejecting nearly all amendments proposed by South Africa.

Some minor changes were made in the text, obtained by Reuters. The new text also includs definitions of why a list of 28 Iranian individuals, companies and institutions should be subject to an assets freeze abroad for their association with Tehran's nuclear or missile programmes.

The UN Security Council draft resolution again demands Iran halt uranium enrichment that can be used to build a bomb or for peaceful purposes. The United States and leading European nations suspect Iran may be developing nuclear weapons under the guise of a civilian program, which Tehran denies.

British Ambassador Emyr Jones Parry said the text was now formally introduced in the 15-member council, after which a vote could be called 24 hours later.

''Our intention is there should be a vote on Saturday. We will meet today for one final consideration,'' Jones Parry said.

Reuters