Blinken claimed that last month, Iran took steps to further expand its nuclear program, which he said have no justifiable peaceful purpose.

In his remarks, Blinken stated, "We are committed to preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and are prepared to use all elements of national power to ensure this outcome."

The latest US sanctions target three companies based in the United Arab Emirates, which Washington accuses of being involved in the transportation of Iranian oil or petrochemical products, as well as 11 ships.