Rep. Tom Reed (R-N.Y.) said on Monday that the recent nuclear deal with Iran could bring the country closer to becoming a nuclear power, and called on the Senate to pass the Nuclear Iran Prevention Act.
The agreement reached between Iran and six world powers loosens economic sanctions against Iran in exchange for the suspension of its nuclear program for six months.
“I am supportive of sanctions being fully enforced and would be supportive of additional sanctions being placed on Iran,” Reed said. “Now is not the time to ease sanctions without making Iran dismantle its nuclear infrastructure. We should keep the pressure on Iran in order to protect our own interests and the interests of our allies, particularly Israel.”
Reed noted that since the announcement of the deal with Iran, work has continued on a reactor in Arak, Iran.
“Continued construction at Arak is clear proof of the Iranian intent to continue nuclear capability efforts,” Reed said.
The Nuclear Prevention Act would enhance sanctions against Iran until its nuclear program is abolished. The House of Representatives approved the measure in July.
“Each day the bill sits in the Senate, Iranians are able to move forward with their nuclear development,” Reed said. “The Senate should take up the Nuclear Iran Prevention Act to send a clear message that where the president is taking us with the already-volatile Iran is troublesome and dangerous.”