It generally pits Republicans who want to take punitive steps to force people off the rolls against Democrats who say that such efforts are shortsighted.

The punitive steps have had some success, he said, but Israel should "provide the Palestinians with incentives to actively suppress those responsible for suicide terrorism."

Pakistan quickly retaliated tonight with matching punitive steps.

And it is now trying to ward off punitive steps by ending voluntary cooperation with I.A.E.A. inspectors.

While the law allows some leeway, it is widely seen as the most punitive step yet taken by the United States against Iran.

Southern African nations fear that punitive steps could unsettle the region further.

A 60-day deadline for meeting the request leaves open the possibility of more punitive steps.

It's a very punitive step, as far as we're concerned.

Senator Bob Smith, the New Hampshire Republican, said today that the Administration should consider punitive steps like revoking China's preferential trade status.

Pakistan retaliated with its own punitive steps.