Moscow cautious on Israeli demands for Iran sanctions

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev Tuesday refused to be pinned down on the questions of sanctions against Iran during a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, DPA reported.

Russia "would not rule sanctions out" said Medvedev after Netanyahu proposed "paralysing" sanctions against Iran, which is seeking to expand its nuclear programmes, prompting international fears that it could ramp up civilian projects into military ones.

Netanyahu suggested a ban on imports of refined oil into Iran as well as a ban on exports of crude oil from Iran. "Iran's economy and budget depend on that," he said, adding that the proposed measures could be effective in the short and medium term.

He also pleaded with Russia to use its permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council to press for more sanctions against Iran.

"These measures have to be brought in before Iran completes its nuclear programme."

The Kremlin has, in the past, cautioned against excessive steps against Iran. But it has also urged Iran to come to the negotiating table and help ward off escalating tensions.