U.S. Says Diplomats Agree to Imposition of 'Soft, Gradual' Sanctions on Iran

World powers have agreed to discuss possible sanctions against Iran for its nuclear program but said they are still open to negotiations. Following talks in London Friday, top diplomats from the P-5 + 1 said they were "deeply disappointed" by Tehran's refusal to stop enriching uranium.

British Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett said diplomats will now begin consulting on a UN measure that authorizes the Security Council to impose non-military sanctions on Iran. Undersecretary of State Nicholas Burns says the only question now is what form the sanctions will take.

The Security Council will begin informal discussions on a new resolution addressing the Iranian nuclear issue next week, and according to sources speaking with Ha'aretz, the resolution will most likely include the imposition of sanctions. A senior Western diplomat told Ha'aretz the sanctions will be "soft and gradual."

The New York Times reports that discussions would focus on a "menu of sanctions" formulated by the State Department at the beginning of the year. The list includes an embargo on transfer of equipment and replacement parts that can also be used for nuclear purposes, as well as restrictions on the movement of senior Iranian officials in several countries.