US allows NGOs to transfer earthquake aid money to Iran
An earthquake victim stands near damaged houses in the earthquake-stricken town of Azerbaijan in Iran, in this August 13, 2012 photo. — Reuters pic WASHINGTON, Aug 22 — The United States will temporarily allow non-governmental organizations to transfer money to Iran to help the country rebuild from an earthquake disaster, the Treasury said yesterday.
The United States has an array of sanctions in place against its foe Iran, which US officials accuse of seeking to build nuclear weapons.
Iran was hit by two powerful earthquakes on August 11 that flattened villages in the northwest of the country and killed more than 300 people.
Treasury said it was issuing a licence that will temporarily allow NGOs to transfer up to US$300,000 (RM937,000) into Iran for reconstruction activity until October 5.
“The general license is a demonstration of (the) administration’s commitment to supporting the Iranian people affected by this tragedy,” Treasury said in a statement.
To transfer more than US$300,000 to Iran, NGOs will need to apply for a special licence, Treasury said. — Reuters
