(VOVworld) - US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, who is visiting Tunisia, told reporters on Monday that international sanctions have yet to compel Tehran to give up its nuclear ambitions. These sanctions are only hurting Iran’s economy.

US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said sanctions would add to diplomatic pressure. (Photo: Reuters)

Panetta called on the international community to step up pressure and remain unified in its support of sanctions against Iran. The tension between the West and Iran has been escalating since the talks between the P5+1 group and Iran in Moscow last month failed to achieve any positive result. The EU has imposed a full embargo on Iranian oil imports since July 1.