Lawmakers advocate preventing Iran’s nuclear capabilities

Rep. Dave Joyce (R-OH) is among lawmakers encouraging the Biden administration to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapon capabilities.

Joyce joined other legislators in forwarding correspondence to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, focusing on three areas of concern: Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missile program, and funding of terrorism.

“As Democrats and Republicans from across the political spectrum, we are united in preventing an Iranian nuclear weapon and addressing the wide range of illicit Iranian behavior,” wrote the coalition made up of 70 Republicans and 70 Democrats. “Since the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) entered into force, Iran has continued to test ballistic missile technology that could potentially be applied to nuclear capable missiles, funded and supported terrorism throughout the Middle East, and engaged in cyberattacks to disrupt the global economy.”

The lawmakers maintain following the decertification of the JCPOA, Iran violated previously agreed upon restrictions concerning refining fissile material and indicated it was no longer bound by any of its limits.

Iran’s nuclear program restrictions must be extended until the regime conclusively demonstrates it has no interest in a nuclear weapons program; diplomacy with Iran must limit not only the production of nuclear material but also ensure that Iran cannot develop a nuclear-capable ballistic missile; and Iran’s malign behavior throughout the Middle East must be addressed.

“There is consensus within Congress that allowing one of the world’s leading state sponsors of terrorism to obtain nuclear weapons is an unacceptable risk,” the delegation concluded. “We recognize that there is not a singular diplomatic path forward on these objectives, and we look forward to working with you as partners to achieve lasting peace in the region.”