AIC Statement on the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee just passed S.615, the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act, which would give the US Congress more oversight regarding implementation of a comprehensive nuclear deal between Iran and the P5+1. The bill would mandate that the administration send the text of a final accord to Congress for review and approval, and in the meantime, would halt the lifting of congressionally-imposed sanctions. This move means that the bill can now move to the Senate floor for a vote. It is worth noting that the version of the bill that was passed today has been softened since its more controversial version was originally proposed by Senators Bob Menendez and Mark Kirk. The compromise legislation would shorten a review period for a final deal and soften language that would make the lifting of sanctions dependent on Iran ending its support for terrorism. The Obama administration announced that while it is “not thrilled” about the legislation, it will nevertheless sign it in its softened form.

The American Iranian Council remains concerned that this bill could hamper a speedy resolution to the nuclear deal as well as the AIC’s broader goal of rapprochement between the United States and Iran. The bill could undermine all the progress and goodwill that have been developed by our top diplomats in Switzerland.

“We remain steadfast in our support for a diplomatic resolution to the nuclear issue that would remove a major issue that has bottlenecked a broader rapprochement between the US and Iran,” AIC Executive Director Emad Kiyaei said.

You can continue to show your opposition to this bill and support for peace by taking the following actions:

-Sign our petition urging Congress to support the negotiations

-Volunteer for the AIC by hosting an event and/or offering your time and expertise, and

-Donate $200, $100, or an amount of your choosing. Remember, all donations are 100% tax-deductible.

Sincerely,
The American Iranian Council