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The objective of sanctions -- to compel Iran to verifiably demonstrate that its nuclear program is for purely peaceful uses -- has not been achieved to date. However, the international coalition that is imposing progressively strict economic sanctions on Iran is broadening and deepening, with increasingly significant effect on Iran's economy. U.S. officials believe that these sanctions, which are now targeting Iran's oil export lifeline, might yet cause Iran to return to the nuclear bargaining table with greater seriousness and intent toward peaceful resolution. Many judge that Iran needs an easing of sanctions because the energy sector provides nearly 70% of Iran's government revenues. Iran's worsening economic situation is caused by the following: (1) A decision by the European Union on January 23, 2012, to wind down purchases of Iranian crude oil by July 1, 2012; (2) Decisions by other Iranian oil purchasers, particularly Japan, to reduce purchases of Iranian oil; and (3) The willingness of other oil producers with spare capacity to sell additional oil to countries cutting Iranian oil buys. Industry sources said in late March 2012 that Iran's oil sales for March have fallen dramatically from prior levels. Once the EU embargo is fully implemented, Iran's oil sales might fall by as much as 40% (1 million barrels per day reduction out of 2.5 million barrels per day of sales). Iran is widely assessed as unable to economically sustain that level of lost oil sales. The signs of economic pressure on Iran are multiplying. The value of Iran's rial has dropped precipitously since December 2011. Iranian leaders have admitted that Iran is virtually cut off from the international banking system and is increasingly trading through barter arrangements rather than hard currency exchange. Despite the imposition of what many now consider to be 'crippling' sanctions, some in Congress believe that economic and diplomatic pressure on Iran needs to increase further and faster.