Supportive of Negotiations/Administration
The following Senators and Representatives released statements which are generally favorable or supportive towards the negotiations between the P5+1 countries and Iran and the Iran Nuclear Deal:
September 9, 2015 —
Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (D-NY 25)
“This nuclear agreement will be implemented, and there’s nothing that the Majority can do about it.”
Congressman Steny Hoyer (D-MD)
“No matter how deep, how personal, and how sincere my concerns about this agreement are, they ultimately do not outweigh the need for a united position on Iran. I will be casting my vote against disapproval to send a signal to our allies and to Iran that the United States is serious about meeting the commitments our negotiators have made – and, more importantly, that Congress will work in a bipartisan way with the Administration to ensure that this agreement is fully and effectively enforced.”
September 8, 2015 —
US Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CN)
“I will vote to support the proposed agreement concerning Iran’s nuclear program and against the resolution of disapproval before the Senate. My two paramount goals have been to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran and do so by peaceful means. I believe the proposed agreement, using diplomacy, not military force, is the best path now available to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran.”
“Given that there is now enough support for this agreement in the Senate, the task before all of us is to ensure that this and future administrations implement the agreement fully and enforce it vigorously.”
September 3, 2015—
“The reality is that rejecting the deal leads to a world in which a better deal is highly improbable, sanctions are greatly reduced in strength, the Iranian economy picks up some steam, and few if any of the benefits of the deal are in place.”
“I believe that supporting the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) negotiated between Iran and the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia and China is the best option for advancing the goal of keeping Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.”
September 2, 2015—
US Senator Barbara Mikulski (D-MD)
“I have concluded that this Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action is the best option available to block Iran from having a nuclear bomb. For these reasons, I will vote in favor of this deal.”
US Representative Corrine Brown (D-FL03)
“I have concluded that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action represents our best, long-term option to prevent Iran from building a nuclear weapon. I will vote in support of the agreement, and if necessary to uphold a veto of the resolution of disapproval.”
US Representative Kurt Schrader (D-OR05)
“I have decided that I will support this agreement as I believe it severely degrades Iran’s nuclear capabilities and will allow international inspectors unprecedented access all across the country.”
September 1, 2015—
US Senator Chris Coons (D-Del)
“We are better off trying diplomacy first… This agreement will substantially constrain the Iranian nuclear program or its duration, and compared with all realistic alternatives, it is the best option available to us at this time.”
“I will vote to support the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action because I believe it is the best option available to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. It places strict limitations on Iran’s nuclear program, requires robust monitoring and verification measures, and grants relief only from nuclear sanctions in exchange for verified actions on Iran’s part.”
US Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.)
“After careful and thoughtful consideration, I have decided to support this agreement because I believe it ends the otherwise unmonitored and unrestricted continuation of the Iranian nuclear program and it halts the surely destructive effects of a nuclear Iran in the Middle East.”
August 31, 2015—
US Representative Joe Kennedy III (D-MA)
“For the better part of a century, Republican and Democratic administrations alike have sought to end the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Despite these efforts, Iran continued to make progress on an illicit nuclear program, until a punishing regime of international sanctions forced them to the negotiating table. The diplomatic agreement reached as a result is intended to shut down that program and keep nuclear weapons out of Iranian hands. When this deal comes before Congress for a vote, I will support its adoption because I believe it is the most effective means we have to achieve that goal.”
August 30, 2015—
US Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR)
“No foreign policy choice comes with guarantees. The future, whether we approve or reject the deal, is unknowable and carries risks,” he concluded. “But the agreement offers us better prospects for preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and more tools and leverage to ensure that outcome.”
August 28, 2015—
“This is a good deal for America, our negotiating partners and the world. That’s not just my view. It’s also the view of scores of American national security leaders and former senior officials, as well as many of their Israeli counterparts.”
August 27, 2015—
US Representative Scott Peters (D-CA)
“After weeks of careful study, it is clear to me the JCPOA is our best tool to prevent Iran from building a nuclear weapon for at least the next 15 years. I will vote to support the agreement.”
August 26, 2015—
US Representative Alan Lowenthal (D-CA)
“I have decided to support the JCPOA agreement because I believe it is the best chance we have at preventing a nuclear-armed Iran. I believe that this agreement is in the best security interests of my constituents, our nation, for Israel, and the world.”
US Representative Linda Sánchez (D-CA)
“After thoroughly reviewing and considering the arguments, I have decided to support the Iran nuclear agreement and oppose a resolution of disapproval. Stopping Iran from a nuclear bomb is the principal goal and I believe this agreement is the best option to achieve that goal.”
August 25, 2015—
US Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.)
“After working my way through the details and the alternatives, losing a lot of sleep, and having a lot of good conversations with so many people — I am convinced that moving forward with this deal is the best chance we have at a strong diplomatic solution, it puts us in a stronger position no matter what Iran chooses to do, and it keeps all of our options on the table if Iran doesn’t hold up their end of the bargain.”
August 24, 2015—
US Representative Karen Bass (D-CA)
“After much deliberation that included reading the agreement, attending classified briefings, speaking directly with President Obama and members of the national security team, and meeting with people and community groups who both support and oppose the agreement, I have decided that I will support the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action agreed upon by Iran and the P5+1.”
August 23, 2015 –
“This is the best way, the only way, to keep Iran from getting a nuclear weapon.”
August 21, 2015 –
US Representative Jerrold Nadler (D-NY)
“What helps Israel and averts another potential Holocaust is whatever is most likely to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear bomb. My conclusion is that this deal — of the available alternatives to us, not what might or should have been — is the best.”
August 20, 2015 –
US Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO)
“This deal isn’t perfect and no one trusts Iran,but it has become clear to me that the world is united behind this agreement with the exception of the government of Israel. I respect and understand those who oppose it but I have become convinced that it is more dangerous to Israel, America and our allies to walk away in the face of unified worldwide support.”
US Representative Mike Honda (D-CA)
“It is time to change the narrative with Iran and give peace a chance. Reviewing and ultimately supporting the proposed Iran nuclear deal has been one of the most substantial foreign policy decisions I have faced in Congress.”
August 19, 2015 –
US Senator Joe Donnelly (D-IN)
“A nuclear-armed Iran would pose an unacceptable threat to the security of the United States and our allies. Only one thing can truly guarantee Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon – the steadfast resolve of the U.S. and our allies to stop them. That is and must remain our nation’s policy, and we must be prepared to follow through on it.”
US Senator Edward Markey (D-MA)
“I have concluded that diplomacy remains our best tool to secure a nuclear-weapon-free Iran. That’s why I intend to support the Iran nuclear agreement when it comes before Congress in September.”
US Representative Steve Cohen (D-TN)
“I know that, by supporting this agreement in Congress, many longtime—even lifelong—friends will be disappointed but I hope they will understand that it is the result of careful consideration and countless classified briefings as well as meetings with officials at the Vienna headquarters of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the agency responsible for enforcing the agreement’s historically robust inspections regime.”
August 18, 2015 –
US Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)
“This agreement, reached by the United States and five partner nations (the United Kingdom, China, France, Russia, and Germany) and Iran, would prohibit Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and place its nuclear program under strict and comprehensive international monitoring. The agreement between the P5+1 and Iran ensures no sanctions relief is provided unless the Iranian government undertakes a series of significant steps. The JCPOA also ensures the international sanctions regime against Iran can be quickly restored if the Iranian government fails to honor its commitments.”
August 17, 2015 –
US Representative Denny Heck (D-WA)
“Following extensive briefings, meetings with constituents, and a thorough reading of the entire agreement, I strongly believe that the Iran nuclear deal is the best avenue forward to protect against Iran developing a nuclear weapon. As I have said repeatedly: there is no scenario in which the world is better off with Iran having a nuclear weapon. This agreement blocks any path to building nuclear weapons. It gives Iran no room to hide. If they try to cheat, we’ll know. At that point, previous sanctions will immediately be reimposed. This is a strong agreement that passes every test.”
August 14, 2015 –
US Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)
“It’s critical that we prevent Iran from developing or acquiring a nuclear weapon. This agreement is the only viable option to achieve that goal. I have studied the details, listened to Ohioans on all sides of this issue, and consulted with nuclear experts like Energy Secretary Moniz, other administration officials, U.S. intelligence officials, and the ambassadors of our P5+1 allies. This deal is not about trusting the Iranian regime, but instead working with our allies on comprehensive, verifiable restrictions to block Iran’s pathways to a nuclear bomb without precipitating another war in the Middle East.”
August 13, 2015
“After careful review, I have decided that I will vote in support of the agreement the United States and our international partners reached with Iran last month. It’s not a conclusion I came to lightly. Since the deal was announced, I’ve consulted with nuclear and sanctions experts inside and outside government; Obama administration officials, including Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz; ambassadors from the other countries that negotiated alongside us; advocates for Israel on both sides of the issue; my constituents in Minnesota; and, of course, my colleagues in the Senate.”
US Representative Katherine Clark (D-CT)
“One of the United States’ most pressing foreign policy priorities is prevention of a nuclear-armed Iran. After studying the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), I am convinced that it is our best opportunity to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and provide for the safety of the United States, Israel and the world.”
August 11, 2015
US Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI)
“Iran must never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon, and that is why I support this agreement. This agreement should not be compared to an imaginary deal where Iran rolled over and eliminated all its centrifuges and all peaceful nuclear energy generation. That was never seriously on the table.”
US Representative Mark Takano (D-CA)
“To fully understand the ramifications of the agreement with Iran, I have met with experts on nuclear non-proliferation and the Middle East, the Administration, and organizations that both support and oppose the deal. I have also met with community leaders, and read the mail sent to my office by constituents. After careful consideration, I believe that the agreement reached by the P5+1 and Iran represents our best opportunity to thwart Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons.”
August 10, 2015
US Senator Amy Klobuchar D-MN)
“Preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon is one of the most important objectives of our national security policy and I strongly advocated for and supported the economic sanctions that brought Iran to the negotiating table. While the agreement is by no means perfect, I have concluded that it is our best available option to put the brakes on Iran’s development of a nuclear weapon and that is why I will support it. In conjunction with that support I will also push for increased security assistance to Israel and enhanced defense cooperation with our Arab allies to combat terrorism throughout the region.”
August 6, 2015
US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY)
“I have decided to support this deal after closely reading the agreement, participating in multiple classified briefings, questioning Energy Secretary Moniz and other officials, consulting independent arms control experts, and talking with many constituents who both support and oppose this deal.”
US Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)
“Over the last three weeks, I have studied this agreement, attended hearings and briefings, and reviewed classified assessments on our ability to verify Iran’s compliance. This agreement slashes Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium, bans weapons grade uranium enrichment and puts in place a rigorous and intrusive inspections regime. The agreement reduces Iran’s number of centrifuges by more than two-thirds for a decade and maintains inspectors’ access to Iran’s uranium mines and mills for a quarter century. Nuclear experts are confident that we will be able to detect violations by Iran and, importantly, the US can respond unilaterally to a violation by snapping back sanctions.”
US Representative Gerry Connolly (D-VA)
“My decision to support the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) negotiated between the P5+1 and Iran is grounded in the hard reality that the alternative to this nuclear agreement is an opaque and unconstrained Iranian nuclear program hanging like the sword of Damocles over the security of the U.S. and our allies, including Israel.”
August 5, 2015
US Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT)
“The test for this agreement, then, is simple: is Iran less likely to obtain a nuclear weapon with this deal than without it? Because I answer this question affirmatively, I will support this agreement when it comes before the United States Senate for a vote in September.”
US Representative Jim McGovern (D-MA)
“With a strong set of comprehensive restrictions, this agreement will take the clear and concrete steps needed to stop Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. The diplomatic solution before us is not perfect, but it provides the robust framework we need to monitor Iran’s nuclear program and ensure that it remains peaceful. This agreement would establish the most intrusive inspections regime ever negotiated. And if Iran cheats, this agreement ensures that the consequences will be severe and that the United States and our allies will have the power to re-impose sanctions.”
August 4, 2015
US Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA)
“Today, after meeting with some of our strongest allies, I am more convinced than ever that a rejection of the Iran nuclear agreement would be a victory for Iranian hardliners and would accelerate their ability to obtain a nuclear weapon.”
“The nuclear program will only stop by diplomatic agreement or military action,” he said Tuesday in a speech from the Senate floor. “This deal takes a nuclear weapons program that was on the verge of success and disables it for many years.”
“Unless there is an unexpected change in the conditions and facts before the vote is called in September, I will support the nuclear agreement between Iran and the P5+1.”
US Representative Andre Carson (D-IN)
“Since the P5+1 began negotiations with Iran, it has pursued the singular objective of preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. I approached my review of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action with the same goal in mind and have determined that it if enacted it will make significant progress toward degrading Iran’s nuclear capabilities. I support this agreement because after decades of dangerous provocation, I believe it is clear that a nuclear Iran would pose a threat to the United States and its allies, destabilize the Middle East, and stoke armed conflict. This agreement shuts down all pathways to a bomb and is a responsible way to ensure Iran never becomes a nuclear power.”
US Representative Mark Pocan (D-WI)
“Since the announcement of the historic Iran deal, I’ve had the chance to carefully review the proposed plan and consult with members of the Obama Administration and numerous independent experts. What’s clear is that ensuring Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon is paramount to the safety and security of the Middle East and the global community. Decades of sanctions have not prevented Iran from pursuing nuclear capabilities, but with this diplomatic agreement I firmly believe we now have the opportunity to verifiably prevent a nuclear Iran by supporting and implementing this deal.”
August 3, 2015
US Representative Anna Eshoo (D-CA)
“In the face of a legitimate threat of immense magnitude from a nuclear-capable Iran, I believe this agreement is the right path forward. My decision is not based on trusting Iran. To the contrary, the regime has a long list of offenses that I deeply object to, but there must be a mechanism in place to keep them from becoming a nuclear power. Nor would I suggest the agreement is perfect. But, in my view, to reject it would be a grave mistake for the United States, a repudiation of our allies in the effort, a danger to Israel, and further deterioration in the Middle East.”
US Representative Patrick Leahy (D-VT)
“The President has been unwavering in his insistence that the goal of this agreement is to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, and I commend him for his vision and resolve. It is now up to Congress to carry out its oversight responsibility. We can strive to make this work, keeping in mind the vital national security interests at stake for our country and for our allies, or impulsively sabotage this chance.”
US Representative Seth Moulton (D-MA)
“It is not a perfect deal, and it is easy to point out the many ways in which it could theoretically be stronger. That being said, it is by far the best viable option before us.”
US Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA)
“At the end of the day, I could not find an alternative that would turn out in a better way than the deal. Rejection of the deal would not lead to something credible. And I think that there are enough ways to mitigate the risks associated with the deal that it makes sense to me to move forward. The risks associated with rejection of the deal are quite a bit higher than the risks associated with going forward.”
July 28, 2015—
Representative Steve Israel wants Congress to take its time reviewing the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“I was one of those members who fought vigorously for a 60-day review period,” said Rep. Steve Israel, D-N.Y., noting that Congress has that amount of time to approve or disapprove the deal. “If you’re going to fight for that, the responsible and nonpartisan thing to do is to take that time.”
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Representative Sander M. Levin thinks the Iran Nuclear Deal will benefit Israel.
“Israel’s security has an always will be of critical importance to me and our country,” said Mr. Levin in a lengthy statement explaining his decision. “I believe that Israel, the region, and the world are far more secure if Iran does not move toward possession of a nuclear weapon. I believe the agreement is the best way to achieve that. In my view, the only anchors in public life are to dig deeply into the facts and consult.”
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Representative Adam Schiff plans to thoroughly review the Iran Nuclear Deal.
Rep. Adam Schiff of California, the ranking Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, said he was “really trying to tune out the emotional appeals and figure out what makes the most sense.” Schiff noted Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee’s likening of the deal to the Holocaust, saying the comments “were singularly unhelpful and made me feel a bit ill.”
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July 27, 2015—
Senator Tim Kaine disapproves of Senator Tom Cotton’s alternative to the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“And I’ve been asking colleagues, ‘okay what’s your plan to do this?’ The only plan that’s been put the table as an alternative is Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas saying ‘hey, you know what a war against Iran will only take two or three days,’” Kaine said. “Maybe that’s somebody’s plan. I think that’s a horrible idea if there is a diplomatic way to greatly disable their program.”
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July 18, 2015—
Senator Tim Kaine points out that Obama can lift sanctions not imposed by Congress.
“I’m just saying this was carefully worked out as we were working out the deal,” Kaine, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, said. “There was a clear understanding that the president had some prerogatives in respect to international and executive sanctions.”
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July 14, 2015—
Senator Richard Blumenthal released the following statement regarding the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“I welcome the announcement of an agreement with Iran after a long and difficult diplomatic road, but the terms now must be carefully and closely reviewed by Congress with the paramount goal of preventing a nuclear-armed Iran.”
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Senator Sherrod Brown released the following statement about the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“Americans prefer a diplomatic solution that ensures Iran cannot develop or obtain a nuclear weapon,” Brown said. “If early reports are correct, it appears the agreement the U.S. and other U.N. Security Council nations have finally reached with Iran is the kind of durable and verifiable agreement that is far preferable to further escalation and possible military action.”
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Senator Ben Cardin releases statement about the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“It is in America’s national security interest that Iran is blocked from ever having a nuclear weapon. Congress has an obligation to vigorously and judiciously review the deal announced today with a seriousness of purpose. Negotiators have spent painstaking time and untold effort working on this accord.”
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Senator Tom Carper is ready to give the Iran Nuclear Deal a chance.
“Let me first thank Secretary of State John Kerry and Energy Secretary Ernie Moniz, the negotiating team they’ve led, and our negotiating partners for all of their hard work and their tenacity in reaching this agreement. Almost immediately, this agreement – which none of my colleagues has read – has been denounced for any number of reasons. To the harshest critics among us, let me say this. Cool your jets. Let’s read the document.”
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Senator Bob Casey looks forward to reviewing the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“”Preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon is critical to our national security and that of our partners in the region, especially Israel. That’s why I have consistently sponsored and supported sanctions against Iran, which brought the regime to the table in the first place, and legislation like the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act and the Nuclear Weapon Free Iran Act of 2015.”
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Senator Richard Durbin applauds diplomatic solution with Iran.
“The United States, working with our allies, has reached a historic agreement with Iran that, according to President Obama and Secretary Kerry, will prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. I commend our negotiators for this critical effort.”
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Senator Eliot L. Engel approves of the Iran Nuclear Deal but warns of other Iran problems.
“This morning, the P5+1 reached a deal with Iran on its nuclear program. Sanctions will not be lifted until the IAEA has certified that Iran is in compliance with this agreement. Iran is permitting unprecedented access to suspected nuclear sites, including military facilities, to verify compliance. However, the arms embargo on Iran will be lifted within five years and sanctions on its ballistic missiles will be lifted within eight years. Throughout negotiations, these issues were off the table, so seeing them included in sanctions relief is deeply troubling.”
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Senator Dianne Feinstein supports the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“The agreement announced today between the world’s major powers—the United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, China and Germany—and Iran is historic. It offers a verifiable, diplomatic resolution to one of our most pressing national security challenges. This is a strong agreement that meets our national security needs and I believe will stand the test of time. I stand behind the U.S. negotiating team and will support this agreement in the Senate.”
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Senator Kirsten Gillibrand wants to read the Iran Nuclear Deal before determining if it is a bad one.
“I strongly supported and helped pass the sanctions that were put in place that brought Iran to the table, but sanctions alone won’t work. The best outcome for the national security interests of the United States and Israel is a strong, verifiable deal that prevents Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.”
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Senator Martin Heinrich praises the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“I welcome the fact that this accord will prevent Iran from being able to build a nuclear weapon and threaten its neighbors and the world. This deal breaks each and every pathway to a weaponized nuclear device, including any potential covert effort.”
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Senator Tim Kaine is pleased with the diplomatic solution to the nuclear problem and plans to review the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“I applaud the U.S. negotiating team for its hard work to find a diplomatic solution to peacefully limit Iran’s nuclear program. A nation’s commitment to diplomacy is every bit as important as its commitment to military strength. Now that the negotiations have concluded, Congress must give the deal a thorough and independent review to ensure it cuts off all of Iran’s pathways to a nuclear weapon.”
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Senator Angus King emphasizes that the Iran Nuclear Deal cannot be based on trust.
“I welcome the announcement that the United States and its negotiating partners have reached an agreement with Iran, and I look forward to thoroughly examining the details to determine whether or not the deal contains the necessary provisions to ensure that Iran cannot develop nuclear weapons capability.”
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Senator Joe Manchin thinks walking away from the Iran Nuclear Deal would be a mistake.
“It would be ‘a catastrophe’ for us to walk away from the deal”
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“I commend Secretary Kerry, Secretary Moniz and the entire U.S. diplomatic team for their tireless and committed work at these historic negotiations. I plan to carefully examine the language of the proposed agreement and look forward to hearing from our nation’s top current and retired national security leaders about how this agreement will improve regional and global security.”
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Senator Chris Murphy is glad to have reached a diplomatic solution with Iran.
“The best way to stop Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon is through diplomacy, not war. At a time when the Middle East is awash in crippling violence, we have an opportunity to address one of the most dangerous threats to the United States and the region through a negotiation, and I congratulate President Obama, Secretary Kerry, and their team for the agreement that was reached today. I know it was a long road”
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Senator Bill Nelson wants to give the Iran Nuclear Deal a chance to be reviewed instead of immediately shooting it down.
“First thing is to not tear down this agreement before the ink is even dry, before we even read it. Congress has a role now, by law, and it’s to thoroughly scrutinize the details of the agreement.”
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Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi releases statement about the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“The historic nuclear agreement announced today is the product of years of tough, bold and clear-eyed leadership from President Obama. I commend the President for his strength throughout the historic negotiations that have led to this point. I join him in commending Secretary Kerry and Secretary Moniz for their leadership.”
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Senator Jack Reed supports the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“This agreement demonstrates the power of American-led diplomacy and establishes a strict and robust monitoring and verification system. If fully implemented, this deal will help control Iran’s pathways to a nuclear weapon.”
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Senator Bernie Sanders applauds the diplomatic Iran Nuclear Deal.
“I congratulate President Obama, Secretary Kerry and the leaders of other major nations for producing a comprehensive agreement to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. This is a victory for diplomacy over saber-rattling and could keep the United States from being drawn into another never-ending war in the Middle East. I look forward to learning more about the complex details of this agreement to make sure that it is effective and strong.”
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Senator Charles E. Schumer made the following statement regarding the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“Over the coming days, I intend to go through this agreement with a fine-tooth comb, speak with administration officials, and hear from experts on all sides. I supported legislation ensuring that Congress would have time and space to review the deal, and now we must use it well. Supporting or opposing this agreement is not a decision to be made lightly, and I plan to carefully study the agreement before making an informed decision.”
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Senator Jeanne Shaheen released the following statement regarding the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“Throughout negotiations, I’ve been adamant that the United States must prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and that hardnosed diplomacy is the preferred means of doing so. Earlier this year, Congress passed legislation, which I supported, that allows the House and Senate to consider this weighty agreement in all its detail.”
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“Today’s announcement is a historic step for international cooperation and our shared goal of reducing the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran. I have always believed that constructive diplomacy is the best way to achieve a safer Middle East, and I congratulate our team of negotiators on reaching this agreement. “
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Senator Mark Warner issued the following statement regarding the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“I will review this agreement with the utmost attention to detail, given the incredible importance of getting an agreement of this magnitude right. Under the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act, which I supported, Congress will have 60 days to analyze this agreement and carefully consider whether it substantially advances the goal of preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.”
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Congressman Gerry Connolly issued the following statement about the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“The final Iranian nuclear agreement announced by the P5+1 earlier this morning is the product of earnest diplomacy, but much work remains before we can deem this effort a success.
Verification, transparency, and compliance are the foundation of any acceptable agreement. This begins with an intrusive inspections regime capable of assuring the world that Iran’s nuclear program is entirely peaceful.”
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Representative Keith Ellison supports the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“The historic agreement reached today proves the power of engagement over isolation — we can choose peace over war. The world is safer thanks to the patient diplomacy and determination of President Obama, Secretary Kerry, and our P5+1 negotiating partners. In the coming weeks, the focus will be on the U.S. Congress to see if Republicans take this deal away from the world. We will stop those who want to push us closer to war.”
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House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer is determined to review the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“With the announcement today of an agreement with Iran, it is now up to Members of Congress to work carefully through every detail, particularly given Iran’s likelihood to exploit any ambiguity or loophole to its benefit and to the detriment of the security of America, Israel, and our allies in Europe and the Gulf. I have been very clear about what I believe must be included, and I will now be examining the agreement unveiled today to see if it meets those criteria.”
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Representative Adam Smith released the following statement about the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“I applaud the Administration for all of its hard work. From the harsh sanctions that brought Iran to the table, to the strenuous and lengthy negotiations that have brought us to this point, the Administration has worked tirelessly to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.”
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Representative Debbie Wasserman-Schultz released the following statement after the announcement of the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“I look forward to reviewing in detail the deal our nation’s top negotiators and diplomats have put forward with Iran after months of tireless work. As I have said throughout the negotiations, any deal must ensure that Iran can never achieve their goal of developing a nuclear weapon.”
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July 9, 2015—
Senator Bob Corker is ‘very happy’ that the negotiators are not rushing the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“The chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee said on Thursday he did not see the continuation of Iran nuclear talks as a problem for U.S. lawmakers, who have the opportunity to vote on a deal after one is reached.
“I’m very happy that we’re not rushing to a place and taking shortcuts on the remaining issues that are left. That is to me a very good thing,” the panel’s chairman, Republican Senator Bob Corker, told reporters at the U.S. Capitol.”
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Representative Eliot Engel says that the only alternative to the Iran Nuclear Deal is bombing Iran.
“The only real alternative to ongoing negotiations to limit Iran’s nuclear ambitions is to bomb its facilities, according to a top House Democrat.
That bombing plot would set Iran’s progress back just a few years, said Rep. Eliot Engel (N.Y.), the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
Engel’s comments were meant to argue that the last best way to halt Iran’s nuclear progress is through an agreement.”
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July 8, 2015—
Senator Richard J. Durbin believes Obama will make the right choice.
“I think it’s an indication that this is crunch time and that he said he’s not going to accept a weak or bad deal. He knows what’s at stake here,” said Durbin.
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June 17, 2015—
Representative Marc Veasey tells the House what he would like to see in the Iran Nuclear Deal.
“I greatly respect all of the hard work that the White House, the State Department, and the Department of Energy have put forth in developing the framework for a Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on Iran’s nuclear program, and I strongly urge them to continue these negotiations over the coming weeks.”
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May 22, 2015—
Senator Bob Corker made the following statement after the President signed the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 into law:
“After more than a year of bipartisan work and a veto threat from the White House, I am pleased to see this bill become law so that any final nuclear agreement with Iran will have to go through Congress where the American people will have a say and lawmakers will have a vote.”
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May 19, 2015 –
Senator Robert Mendez made the following statement supporting diplomatic negotiations with Iran:
“A diplomatic breakthrough resulting in a peaceful and verifiable termination of Iran’s nuclear weapons program is the desired outcome of the Obama administration’s negotiations with the international community and Iran.”
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May 18, 2015 –
Senator Angus King made the following statement about the Iran Nuclear Deal:
“We can’t solve all the problems of the region in the current negotiations. The purpose of this potential agreement is to prevent Iran from achieving a nuclear weapon. There’s only one thing worse than an Iran that is working to support terrorism and destabilize other regimes – and that is an Iran doing those things while armed with a nuclear weapon.”
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May 17, 2015 –
Senator Lindsey Graham stated his predictions in response to Iran gaining nuclear weapons:
“To allow this pariah nation to acquire nuclear weapons and the ability to deploy them against us and our allies—and to share them with radical Islamic organizations—would constitute an incalculable threat to our national security and an existential threat to Israel. It would set off a nuclear-arms race that would virtually guarantee a regional war with global implications.”
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U. S. Representatives Grace Meng (D-Queens) and Lee Zeldin (R-LI) proposed the following solution to the nuclear issue with Iran:
“The negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program have engendered furious debate in Washington and in capitals across the world. But there are steps outside of the nuclear talks that President Obama can take to help ensure that the United States and its allies are stronger and more secure the day after a deal than they were the day before.”
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May 14, 2015 –
Senator Ben Cardin made the following statement on the House Passage of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015:
“The Senate and House, Democrats and Republicans have spoken with one voice in demanding a review of any accord with Iran that suspends Congressional sanctions on its nuclear weapons program. Congress has a vital oversight role to play if a final agreement is reached and to ensure Iran’s long-term compliance with an agreement. This legislation ensures that outcome.”
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U.S. Representative Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD) made the following statement regarding the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015:
““As I have said before, any final agreement must prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and include the most intrusive inspections and access regime we’ve ever seen in order to verify Iran’s compliance. It must address potential military dimensions of Iran’s nuclear program and bring about Iran’s full cooperation with U.N. Security Council resolutions.”
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May 7, 2015 –
Senator Jack Reed made the following statement after the Senate passed the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015:
“We must do everything we can to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. I strongly support the diplomatic efforts currently ongoing between the Obama Administration and representatives from Iran, but Congress also has a significant role to play. This bipartisan legislation allows for an opportunity to review any final agreement.”
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U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-Il-9) made the following statement about the diplomacy letter:
“This letter reflects wide support for the agreement as outlined in the framework. If there is a vote in the Congress to disapprove of the final agreement, and it is an agreement that reflects the framework, then I think we have enough votes in the Congress to sustain a veto.”
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April 15, 2015 –
U.S. Representative Eliot L. Engel (D-NY-16th) released following statement regarding the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 as amended:
I welcome Senate Foreign Relations Committee passage of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015, and I thank Senators Corker, Cardin and Menendez for their leadership. This compromise represents a bipartisan commitment toward preventing Iran from getting a nuclear weapon.
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April 8, 2015 –
U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) made the following statement regarding Corker’s which would allow Congress to approve or disapprove of a potential deal with Iran:
“To force Congress to weigh in now on the Iran nuclear talks before a final deal has been completed would be a reckless rush to judgment. It would undermine negotiations at a critical moment and could derail a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to deal with this looming threat.”
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U.S. Representative Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-12) made the following statement regarding Corker’s which would allow Congress to approve or disapprove of a potential deal with Iran:
“Senator Corker’s legislation undermines these international negotiations and represents an unnecessary hurdle to achieving a strong, final agreement. “
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April 2, 2015 –
“The Obama Administration has worked tirelessly to reach this point and I will work to ensure that Congress has the patience to support this diplomatic effort because the risks of walking away from the table are simply too high.”
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“Americans want to find a peaceful means of ensuring Iran cannot develop a nuclear weapon. It appears the framework agreement with Iran reached by the U.S. and other UN Security Council nations will serve as the basis for the kind of comprehensive and verifiable agreement for which we had been hoping.”
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U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“As Ranking Member, I look forward to becoming even more engaged in our unified national effort to ensure Iran is not allowed to have nuclear weapons.”
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U.S. Senator Bob Corker (R-TN) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“A nuclear-armed Iran would lead to a less safe and less secure world, which is why the stakes are so high in the pursuit of a strong agreement that is fully enforceable, verifiable and is in our national security interests.”
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“I’m encouraged to hear that negotiators have agreed to a framework—a major step toward achieving a final deal. Our shared goal in the United States is clear: to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran. The stakes couldn’t be higher and I commend Secretary Kerry and our entire negotiating team for their commitment to finding a diplomatic solution that guarantees our security and that of our allies.”
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“There is no realistic solution to Iran’s nuclear program outside of a verifiable, broad-based and ironclad diplomatic agreement. After being briefed and reviewing the parameters, I believe the negotiators have made substantial progress and that this is a sufficient framework to produce a final agreement by the end of June.”
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U.S. Senator Al Franken (D-MN) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“Americans want to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon, and they would prefer to do it through diplomacy rather than military action. This breakthrough agreement is an important step toward that goal. I believe that Congress now should give our negotiators time and space to work out the details of a strong, verifiable comprehensive agreement.”
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“I will continue urging my Senate colleagues to allow negotiators to represent the United States’ best interests without taking action that would, intentionally or not, jeopardize the discussions taking place. Those who are critical of today’s framework have the responsibility to present a serious, credible alternative that would get us to our ultimate goal: achieving a nuclear-free Iran in a way that doesn’t require another war in the Middle East.”
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U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“Those who would thwart diplomacy or undermine the talks should remember that failure could come at a steep price for our troops and national security. Some of the loudest critics of diplomacy with Iran today wrongly backed a rush to war with Iraq, which ended up empowering Tehran and strengthening their hand in the region. We can’t afford to repeat the mistakes of the past.”
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“I spoke to President Obama today and he informed me that negotiators have agreed upon a framework with the goal of preventing Iran from getting a nuclear weapon. I am cautiously optimistic about this framework. We must always remain vigilant about preventing Iran from getting a nuclear weapon but there is no question that a diplomatic solution is vastly preferable to the alternatives.”
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U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer (D-NY) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“Secretary Kerry and Secretary Moniz have worked long and hard and their announcement deserves careful, rigorous and deliberate analysis. I’ll be giving the framework a very careful look.”
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U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“The announcement of a framework for a comprehensive agreement to limit Iran’s nuclear program is a positive development. I look forward to closely reviewing the framework and continuing my work, as a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, to ensure that Iran cannot develop nuclear weapons.”
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U.S. Representative Donald Beyer (D-VA-8) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“I congratulate the American negotiators, led by Secretary Kerry, as well as our P5+1 partners on reaching this political framework agreement. More issues remain to be resolved, but this framework could form the basis of a historic agreement that will peacefully prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, thereby removing one of the greatest threats to the security of a region which certainly needs no more instability.”
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U.S. Representative John Conyers (D-MI-13) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“The Obama Administration’s painstaking diplomatic efforts are yielding one of the great international agreements of our time: a verifiable plan to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. The framework agreement will not only promote long-term security in the Middle East but also help remove the short-term specter of a destructive military confrontation. Today’s announcement will unquestionably make the Middle East and the broader world safer.”
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U.S. Representative Keith Ellison (D-MN-5) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“The framework agreement announced today is a positive step towards securing a final agreement that will prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. President Obama, President Rouhani and the P5+1 remain committed to the difficult work of diplomacy—even as hardliners in the United States and Iran call for war. Peaceful diplomacy, especially at a time when the divide between the United States and Iran is so wide, is always preferable to war. This agreement shows that there is political will on all sides to cross the finish line to a final agreement.”
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U.S. Representative Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD-5) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“I will be looking very closely at the details of the framework reached today with Iran. A negotiated agreement has always been the preferred outcome, and, as I have said previously, any deal with Iran must prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, deal with militarization, and provide for what Deputy Secretary of State Tony Blinken called ‘the strongest, most intrusive inspection and access program’ in history. The international com munity must be able to verify that Iran is adhering to the terms of any deal.”
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U.S. Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA-13) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“Today’s framework agreement would prevent an Iranian nuclear weapon, enhances our national security and shows that diplomacy works. This is a major step forward for diplomacy, national security and global peace. This type of smart, strategic diplomacy brings us closer to a more peaceful and secure world while promoting U.S. national security.”
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U.S. Representative Jim McGovern (D-MA-2) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“As outlined by the framework, the final agreement would not only be a “good deal” – it has the potential of being an historic one. A strong and verifiable final agreement will also avert the U.S. and other nations from engaging in yet another war in the Middle East, which I believe is an unthinkable alternative. At the same time, this framework and the final agreement would strengthen all efforts to contain nuclear weapons globally.”
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“I commend President Obama and Secretary Kerry for their smart, tough leadership in reaching the preliminary nuclear framework announced today.”
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U.S. Representative Adam Smith (D-WA-9) made the following statement regarding the announcement of a tentative nuclear deal with Iran:
“This deal has the potential to cut off all of Iran’s paths to a nuclear weapon in a verifiable way. Opponents should seek to guide the framework towards a positive outcome, not attempt to derail a final comprehensive deal. No final deal will be perfect, but the objective is to prevent Iran from achieving a nuclear weapon without going to war. In the months ahead, I will follow negotiations closely and encourage a peaceful and positive outcome.”
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March 26, 2015 –
U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) made the following statement regarding the Kirk-Brown amendment:
“It’s my bill. It’s Boxer-Schatz. It’s the exact same thing that we wrote. What we say is the president should certify if Iran ever breaks out, and if they break out we have immediate votes and that’s my bill. I’m very happy.”
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) made the following statement regarding the Kirk-Brown amendment:
“It’s what the president’s going to do anyway and we want to speak as Congress that he follows through on the sanctions and the certification. This amendment is minor and in my view the language that we negotiate with Kirk will underscore how important it is that negotiations go forward.”
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March 24, 2015 –
U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) made the following statement:
“The president has a right to have the space to negotiate the best deal he can. And then we’ll have a chance to opine.”
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U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) made the following statement concerning legislation that would allow Congress to approve or reject a deal:
“They are putting on a full-court press to say it’s a bad deal. The deal’s not done, it’s not completed and yet it’s being presented … as ‘it’s a bad deal.’ I’m not sure how you say it’s a bad deal. We don’t know what the deal is.”
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U.S. Representative Jim McDermott (D-WA-7) made the following statement in regards to a letter the House of Representatives sent to the president concerning the Iran nuclear program:
“The whole idea was to derail it, and they’re speaking for [Benjamin] Netanyahu. They leave no alternative, because they won’t even let him finish the negotiations. They’ve already decided we’re going to war.”
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March 9, 2015 –
U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) made the following statement regarding a GOP letter addressed to the Iranian leadership:
“This is a brazen attempt by Senate Republicans to sabotage negotiations aimed at preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. This bizarre, inappropriate letter is a desperate ploy to scuttle a comprehensive agreement and the chance for a peaceful resolution, which is in the best interests of the United States, Israel and the world.”
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U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) made the following statement a GOP letter addressed to the Iranian leadership:
“It’s more appropriate for members of the Senate to give advice to the president, to Secretary Kerry and to the negotiators,” Collins said. “I don’t think that the ayatollah is going to be particularly convinced by a letter from members of the Senate, even one signed by a number of my distinguished and high ranking colleagues.”
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U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) made the following statement regarding a GOP letter addressed to the Iranian leadership:
“This is a cynical effort by Republican Senators to undermine sensitive international negotiations—it weakens America’s hand and highlights our political divisions to the rest of the world. Understand that if these negotiations fail, a military response to Iran developing their nuclear capability becomes more likely. These Republican Senators should think twice about whether their political stunt is worth the threat of another war in the Middle East.”
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U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) made the following statement regarding a GOP letter addressed to the Iranian leadership:
“I am appalled at the latest step of 47 Republicans to blow up a major effort by our country and the world powers to negotiate a peaceful resolution to the Iranian nuclear program. “
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U.S. Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) made the following statement regarding a GOP letter addressed to the Iranian leadership:
“Republicans are undermining our Commander-in-Chief while empowering Iran’s hardline ayatollahs.”
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U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) made the following statement regarding a GOP letter addressed to the Iranian leadership:
“It appears that for most of my Republican colleagues in the Senate, a war in Afghanistan and a war in Iraq were not enough. They now apparently want a war in Iran as well. President Obama is working to negotiate peaceful means to prevent Iran from deploying a nuclear weapon. It is an outrage that my Republican colleagues are trying to sabotage that effort.”
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March 4, 2015 –
U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) released the following statement in regards to the Iran Congressional Oversight Act:
“I am proud of this bill because it will ensure that if there is a nuclear deal and if Iran violates it, there will be immediate action by Congress to reinstate sanctions and consider even tougher penalties against Iran.”
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U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) made the following statement in regards to the Iran Congressional Oversight Act:
“The Iran Congressional Oversight Act ensures appropriate oversight of any nuclear agreement with Iran and sends a signal that we stand ready to swiftly re-impose sanctions if Iran violates an agreement. I urge my colleagues to support this bill as it does not undermine ongoing diplomacy.”
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March 3, 2015 –
U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) made the following statement in regards to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s address to Congress:
“President Obama has made it clear that the purpose of the P5+1 negotiations is to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran. We all agree on that goal. Were it not for the President’s efforts we would not have this international coalition imposing the sanctions on Iran that brought them to the table in the first place. These negotiations and the peaceful resolution we hope they yield must be given a chance to succeed.”
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U.S. Senator Chris Murphey (D-CT) made the following statement in regards to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s address to Congress:
“When you look at alternatives to negotiations with Iran, options are grim. We must give diplomacy a chance to work.”
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”There is no emergency; this deal — if there is one — won’t be concluded until almost summer. Let’s do this the right way. If this is the process, then I will have no choice but to use my voice and vote against any motion to proceed to the bill.”
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U.S. Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) made the following statement to in regards to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s address to Congress:
“President Obama has made it clear that a nuclear-armed Iran is unacceptable and I could not agree more. I believe that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon through tough, smart diplomacy is the best option. We should provide time and space for the negotiations currently underway to play out. But all options must remain on the table to deal with Iran if talks fail.”
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U.S. Representative Llyod Dogget (D-TX-35) made the follow statement in regards to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s address to Congress:
“The only alternative he offers is the complete and total surrender by Iran. That’s not going to happen. He was wrong about Iraq. He was wrong about the interim agreement. And he’s wrong now. There is no agreement this administration could reach with Iran that would be good enough for him.”
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U.S. Representative Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-12) made the following statement in regards to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s address to Congress:
“I was near tears throughout the Prime Minister’s speech – saddened by the insult to the intelligence of the United States as part of the P5 +1 nations, and saddened by the condescension toward our knowledge of the threat posed by Iran and our broader commitment to preventing nuclear proliferation.”
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U.S. Representative Chellie Pingree (D-ME-1) made the following statement in regards to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s address to Congress:
“My biggest concern is that the speech undermines the ongoing work of our President and his administration to reach a deal with Iran that keeps them from obtaining nuclear capability.”
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U.S. Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA-28) made the following statement in regards to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s address to Congress:
“We must consider the consequences of a failure to reach an agreement and whether there is a plausible alternative to military action. My own belief is that in the absence of an agreement, Iran will again begin to enrich to 20% and beyond, bringing on a new line of faster and more efficient centrifuges. Congress will pass – with my support – a new set of even more stringent sanctions and we will work to keep the international community behind them. From here, it may be a race for time between increased pressure on Iran and the possibility it brings that country back to the negotiating table, and crossing a red line that brings Israel, the US or both, to war.”
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January 29, 2015 –
U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) made the following statement:
“Congress should have the collective patience to wait until the end of June to see whether our negotiators can resolve the nuclear issue with Iran through diplomacy.”
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January 26, 2015 –
U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) made the following statement:
“Enacting new sanctions before the end of the negotiating period would gravely undermine our efforts to reach an agreement with Iran.”
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“The best solution is a strong diplomatic deal. The question is whether passing new sanctions now would help us get there. The President strongly believes it would gravely harm negotiations and therefore, I am willing to give him more time.”
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U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) made the following statement:
“I’m a big fan of trying to exert and trying the diplomatic option as long as we can. If it fails, I will vote to resume sanctions and I would vote to have new sanctions. But if you do it in the middle of negotiations, you’re ruining it.”
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January 21, 2015 –
U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) released the following statement:
“We’re all here with the same goal: to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. I have a concern that reaches across party lines that some colleagues are pushing to enact new sanctions while our negotiators are still at the table.”
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January 20, 2015 –
U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) made the following statement:
“I don’t know what the rush is. The administration is doing what it needs to do in negotiations.”
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U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) made the following statement:
“We have a responsibility to support the diplomatic negotiations and see them through. If they fail to achieve a deal, then we should consider sanctions and next steps, but we shouldn’t prejudge that outcome.”
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U.S. Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ) made the following statement:
“While negotiations are going on, I worry that we will fracture our coalition. I want to keep that coalition together.”
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U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) wrote the following statement on Twitter:
“It would be foolish of Congress to impose new sanctions & risk giving #Iran an excuse to walk away from these critical talks.”
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U.S. Representative David Price (D-NC-4) made the following statement:
“Imposing new or less flexible economic sanctions – which has been proposed by a number of my congressional colleagues, including Senators Kirk and Menendez – could do great damage to our prospects for a nuclear agreement with Iran. New punitive action could strengthen Iranian hard-liners and make their withdrawal from the negotiations more likely. Acting unilaterally could also undermine the stability of our international alliance, and thereby actually weaken the existing international sanctions regime.”
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January 14, 2015 –
U.S. Representative Gaerry Connolly (D-VA-11) made the following statement:
“Nuance and diplomacy are not our strong suits. My concern has not changed that with the best of intentions, Congress interposes itself in a way that precipitates Iranian walk-away. And I don’t think the world is safer if that happens.”
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January 12, 2015 –
U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) made the following statement on Twitter:
I agree with @AmbassadorPower, additional Iran sanctions now is not the solution to the nuclear issue.
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November 26, 2014 –
U.S. Congressman Alan Lowenthal (D-CA-47) released the following statement:
“It is critical that a comprehensive and verifiable agreement be reached to halt any capacity for Iran to develop nuclear weapons. While I am disappointed that the P5+1 nations have not yet reached a permanent agreement with Iran, I do support an extension of the talks. However, it is absolutely imperative that we maintain the economic sanctions that continue to hold Iran accountable.”
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November 25, 2014 –
U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement:
“It is critical that we ensure that the Iranian regime does not acquire a nuclear weapons capability. While I remain skeptical of the regime’s intentions and mindful that they have negotiated in bad faith before, it is in our national security interest for the parties to continue their efforts towards reaching a comprehensive agreement. The Administration should work expeditiously to conclude negotiations sooner than the allotted time period; the longer we negotiate, the more sanctions relief the Iranian regime enjoys without having to make new concessions.
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U.S. Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL-11) released the following statement:
“While the delay in negotiations relating to Iran’s nuclear disarmament is disappointing, it is vital that the lead negotiators — United States, Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia — continue to press for a diplomatic resolution to ensure that Iran fully commits to abandon its nuclear weapons ambitions. A seven-month extension should not be an excuse for inaction. Otherwise, additional economic sanctions will come up for discussion. All parties should re-engage again quickly. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry is correct when he says that the ‘talks are not going to get easier just because we extend them.’ The context of a resolution will become more difficult, however, and will feed insecurity and instability that should be avoided.”
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U.S. Representative Jim Himes (D-CT-4) released the following statement:
“I am disheartened that the P5+1 negotiations have not yet produced a final deal with Iran. The agreement reached one year ago – the result of strict sanction regimes by the United States and our allies that I have supported – was a sign of real progress and has helped control Iran’s nuclear program. The extension of this system is preferable to agreeing to a bad deal or walking away empty-handed, which would threaten the future security of the United States, Israel and the region. However, we must not allow Iran to continue to play for time, and we must ensure that inspectors have unfettered access to nuclear sites during this period to keep Iran in check. While we must be ready to enact even tougher sanctions on the regime if negotiations are unsuccessful, I remain hopeful that a strong agreement can be reached that guarantees a long-term nuclear free Iran.”
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U.S. Representative Mark Takano (D-CA-41) released the following statement:
“I support the recently announced extension of talks to dismantle large parts of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. Under no circumstances can Iran acquire nuclear weapons, and I hope that the extra time allotted will allow for tough discussions so that the parties involved reach an acceptable solution.”
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U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman-Shultz (D-FL-23) released the following statement:
“Reaching a satisfactory deal to ensure that Iran never has the capability to build a nuclear weapon is hard work but the effort is certainly worthwhile.
“I commend this Administration and everyone working on the negotiations for their tireless efforts.
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November 24, 2014 –
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement:
“It is in America’s national security interest to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons capabilities. I continue to believe the diplomatic path—backed by tough international sanctions and a robust compliance regime—is the best option available to achieve that outcome. The negotiations, which now have been extended, will continue to be governed by an agreement that secures from Iran concessions that amount to the first meaningful limits on its nuclear program in nearly a decade. Progress was made during this negotiating period, so I believe it’s better for our national security to continue working for an agreement and keeping the pressure on Iran, than to walk away.”
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U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) released the following statement:
“I support this extension because it maintains a strong sanctions regime, keeps Iran’s program frozen in place and subject to rigorous inspections, and continues talks toward a peaceful end to Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons, which is in the best interests of America and the world.”
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U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) released the following statement:
“Sufficient progress has been made in the negotiations between the P5+1 powers and Iran to justify an extension. I support the decision to continue negotiations as these talks are the only way to peacefully ensure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon.
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U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) released the following statement:
“I support this interim agreement to continue to freeze Iran’s nuclear program in return for limited sanctions relief, while negotiators work to finalize a comprehensive agreement in the next few months. As Chairman of the Banking Committee and author of many of the sanctions that helped force Iran to negotiate, I have urged my Senate colleagues to hold off on legislatively imposing new sanctions during ongoing P5+1 negotiations with Iran. While substantial progress has been made, and Iran continues to comply with its agreements, more must be done to give the US and the international community confidence they could detect and stop any move by Iran to develop a nuclear weapon, either through a “breakout” using existing nuclear facilities or a “sneak out” using clandestine sites. Having Congress impose new sanctions on Iran or place unworkable timetables and conditions on negotiators now would be grossly counterproductive, potentially shattering the international coalition formed to isolate Iran and escalating toward war.”
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U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) released the following statement:
“While I am disappointed the P5+1 missed today’s deadline to reach a comprehensive agreement with Iran on its nuclear program, I believe the extension announced today is better than the alternatives: an inadequate agreement that fails to sufficiently curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions, or a complete collapse of negotiations. The Joint Plan of Action has proved to be a successful interim measure, and I believe some extension is appropriate to allow time and space for further negotiations. Moving forward, I expect to see demonstrable progress toward a robust deal that blocks all potential pathways to a bomb and lays out a comprehensive inspections and verification regime, with no ambiguity on the consequences should Iran cheat.”
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U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement:
“The threat of a nuclear armed Iran is real and unacceptable. That is why I support Secretary Kerry and our P5+1 partners in their endeavor to achieve this important – and historic – goal to ensure Iran can never develop nuclear weapon capability. Our national security and the security in the region hinges on the success of these negotiations. While the announcement of another extension is disappointing, I look forward to hearing the details of the extension from Administration officials to determine if we are on the right path to achieving our objectives. The stakes couldn’t be higher, but the issues are complex. I encourage our negotiators to stay at the table and explore every pathway to an acceptable resolution.”
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U.S. Senator Carl Levin (D-MI) released the following statement:
“I support the decision to extend nuclear talks with Iran. To this point, the interim agreement reached a year ago has been a net plus as it has maintained the tough sanctions regime, limited Iran’s uranium enrichment and provided inspectors with expanded access to Iran’s nuclear facilities. The extension keeps that interim agreement in place while negotiations continue. But our goal is and should be a comprehensive agreement that ensures Iran does not build a nuclear weapon, and because such an agreement is apparently within reach, it is in the interests of the United States and our partners in this endeavor to pursue it.
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U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) released the following statement:
“While I am disappointed that there was not a comprehensive agreement on Iran’s nuclear program reached today in Vienna, the decision to extend the negotiations is a far better outcome than a bad deal or no deal at all. President Obama has consistently said the United States would not accept an agreement that did not place sufficient constraints on Iran’s nuclear program. The US negotiating team and our partners in the P5+1 made significant progress over the last year, but significant gaps remain on key issues. It is worth taking the time to continue these negotiations in the interest of achieving a better deal.”
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U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) released the following statement:
“The United States and its partners continue to make progress in these negotiations and remain steadfast in getting a good deal rather than settling on terms that will leave the United States, Israel, and the international community worse off. I will continue to closely monitor negotiations over the coming months to ensure that any final deal includes a strict verification regime with unprecedented inspection and monitoring procedures that will verify that Iran’s pathways to a nuclear weapon have been blocked.
“Members of Congress are right to remain vigilant about ensuring Iran’s full and substantiated compliance with any final deal. Anything less is non-negotiable. But we ought to refrain from taking premature legislative action during these final months that could permanently derail negotiations, undermine the tough multilateral sanctions on Iran, and lead the regime to restart the unrestricted and unmonitored nuclear program that we are determined to end.”
U.S. Representative Keith Ellison (D-MN-5), along with U.S. Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA-13), U.S. Representative John Conyers (D-MI-13), U.S. Representative Jim McGovern (D-MA-2), U.S. Representative David Price (D-NC-4), U.S. Representative Hank Johnson (D-GA-4), U.S. Representative Jim Moran (D-VA-8), and U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-9) released the following statements supporting the extension:
“Today’s extension is evidence of how far the United States and Iran have come since these negotiations started,” Rep. Ellison said. “The investment in patient diplomacy made by both countries is yielding significant progress. Iran has already complied with the requirements in the Joint Plan of Action and reduced their capacity to build a nuclear weapon. We are closer than we have ever been to reaching a peaceful agreement and we can’t give up now. I call on Congress to support President Obama, Secretary Kerry and the P5+1 negotiators to close this deal.”
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U.S. Representative Mary Lou Marzian (D-KY-34) made the following statement:
“Kentucky families are more likely to have a personal connection to the U.S. military than most people in the country. In the nearly 12 years since the war in Iraq began, an awful lot of Kentuckians have experienced the costs of war.
With that in mind, it’s important to take a sober look at the situation with Iran’s nuclear program. Iran and world powers are painstakingly negotiating a final accord that will guard against an Iranian nuclear bomb. The self-imposed deadline for these negotiations was Monday, but participants agreed to extend negotiations for seven months. In reality, diplomacy is the only option to ensure true U.S. security.”
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U.S. Representative Jim McDermott (D-WA-7) released the following statement:
“Secretary Kerry and Ambassador Sherman deserve enormous credit and our sincere thanks for their tireless effort these past many months pursuing a diplomatic solution to Iran’s nuclear program. I know all parties involved would have preferred to leave Vienna with a comprehensive framework in place. However, I welcome the news that American, Iranian, and P5+1 negotiators will extend their talks until June 30, 2015 with the hope of organizing a framework as early as March. U.S.- Iranian relations have markedly improved since negotiations began one year ago; it is imperative we maintain that positive momentum.”
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U.S. Representative Adam Smith (D-WA) released the following statement:
“While I had hoped that we would have been able to reach a final deal, I support the extension of the interim deal that maintains a freeze on Iran’s nuclear program and makes progress towards a final deal. The President has made it abundantly clear through his words as well as his actions, that under his leadership the United States will not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon. I firmly support that goal, which is why I support the extension of negotiations. During negotiations, Iran’s nuclear program will remain frozen and the painful sanctions will stay in place. The extension keeps the pressure on Iran.”
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