To the Editor:

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has finally validated global fears and concerns regarding the Iranian nuclear threat ("Case against Iran gets stronger," Feb. 19). We welcome the IAEA's more candid reporting under its new leadership on Iran's drive for a nuclear weapon.

Time is of the essence, and we hope the full weight of united international pressure -- including Russia and China -- can be exerted on Iran with no further delay. If the United Nations Security Council can only agree on weak international sanctions, the United States and like-minded allies should adopt harsh national sanctions.

Iran's survival is dependent upon two key issues: repression at home and oil revenue from abroad. Other than military action, an embargo of Iran's oil exports is the toughest sanction available that could impact the Iranian regime's cost-benefit analysis of its nuclear program. With Saudi spare production capacity equal to twice Iran's exports, careful coordination can prevent disruption to oil supplies and price spikes.

With its history of international terrorism and open hatred of America, this Iranian regime with a nuclear weapon would pose a serious threat to the American homeland and to American interests abroad. It's time to get serious with Iran.