The United National Security Council has passed new sanctions against Iran over its nuclear programme.

It approved a resolution today for a fourth round of sanctions which included prohibiting Iran from buying heavy weapons, tightening financial transactions with Iranian banks and new cargo inspections.

But Iran’s envoy to the UN’s nuclear watchdog, Ali Asghar Soltanieh, said Tehran would continue its uranium enrichment activities.

Turkey and Brazil, who had earlier negotiated a deal with Iran to enrich some of its uranium outside its borders, opposed the resolution. Lebanon abstained and 12 members voted in support.

Foreign Secretary William Hague said the decision sent a “strong statement of international resolve”, increasing the pressure on Iran to meet its obligations.