The order says the measure is being taken "because the actions and policies of the Government of Iran continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States."
The president sent a notice to Congress saying that Iran remains the most active global sponsor of terrorism and continues to support extremist organizations such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas and Islamic Jihad in the Palestinian territories, the Taliban in Afghanistan and various insurgent groups in Iraq.
On March 15, 1995, U.S. President Bill Clinton declared a national emergency with respect to Iran pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to United States' national security, foreign policy and economy by the actions and policies of the government of Iran.
The president issued an order imposing more comprehensive sanctions prohibiting all commercial and financial transactions with Iran.
