In response to ongoing nuclear negotiations with Iran, Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.) said on Tuesday that economic sanctions against Iran should continue to be strengthened until its nuclear development program is brought to a complete halt.
“As we move down the path of diplomacy, it is important to remember Iran’s track record and not be fooled by hollow verbal gestures,” Buchanan said. “A nuclear-armed Iran threatens the stability of the Middle East and the world. By no means should the United States accept any deal that leaves the door open to Iran’s continued pursuit of a nuclear weapon. Until then, tougher sanctions are in order.”
Secretary of State John Kerry and foreign ministers from numerous countries recently engaged in negotiations with Iranian leaders in Geneva.
No agreement was reached. One proposal called for Iran to suspend its nuclear program for six months while long-term negotiations continue. In exchange, some sanctions on Iran would have been eased.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it would have been the “deal of the century” for Iran. French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius called the proposal a “sucker’s deal.”
“We need to ensure that this is not just another stalling tactic by a regime suffering from crippling economic sanctions hoping to receive some relief as they strive to build a nuclear weapon,” Buchanan said.