Bull semen and cigarettes: Just a few things the US exports to Iran
JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP/Getty Images Though it’s the one remaining member of the “Axis of Evil,” the value of U.S. exports to Iran has reportedly increased tenfold since George Bush took office. While there are reportedly strict rules about what the U.S. can ship over there, they apparently aren’t too limited–US tobacco companies have reportedly exported $158 ...
JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP/Getty Images
Though it’s the one remaining member of the “Axis of Evil,” the value of U.S. exports to Iran has reportedly increased tenfold since George Bush took office. While there are reportedly strict rules about what the U.S. can ship over there, they apparently aren’t too limited–US tobacco companies have reportedly exported $158 million worth of cigarettes to the nation since 2000, more than any other product. The U.S. has also sold Iran about $12.6 million worth of bull semen. You’re welcome, Mr. Ahmadinejad.
The value of yearly trade with Iran has skyrocketed from $8 million in 2001 to $146 million in 2007, totalling $546 million since the president’s tenure began. Yet Bush keeps pushing multi-country sanctions on Iran. Looks like he either hasn’t been paying attention to this trade increase or has just turned a blind eye.
For more, check out this video.
More from Foreign Policy
America Is a Heartbeat Away From a War It Could Lose
Global war is neither a theoretical contingency nor the fever dream of hawks and militarists.
The West’s Incoherent Critique of Israel’s Gaza Strategy
The reality of fighting Hamas in Gaza makes this war terrible one way or another.
Biden Owns the Israel-Palestine Conflict Now
In tying Washington to Israel’s war in Gaza, the U.S. president now shares responsibility for the broader conflict’s fate.
Taiwan’s Room to Maneuver Shrinks as Biden and Xi Meet
As the latest crisis in the straits wraps up, Taipei is on the back foot.
Sign up for World Brief
FP’s flagship evening newsletter guiding you through the most important world stories of the day, written by Alexandra Sharp. Delivered weekdays.
By submitting your email, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use and to receive email correspondence from us. You may opt out at any time.