Political Quotes

“I thank my friend, Senator Bingaman. It is the intention of the prohibition on Iraqi-origin petroleum imports to terminate the imports, and they could then be addressed by the President and the President, after consultation with relative committees of Congress, can certify to the Congress that Iraq is substantially in compliance with the U.N.S.C. Resolution 687 and Resolution 986. Resolution 986 prohibits smuggling of oil in circumvention of the Oil for Food Program, and 687 mandates inspections by U.N. inspectors. So the intent is clear. It is to terminate oil exports in the United States. The Senator from New Mexico suggested we contemplate and be somewhat sensitive to the attitude of the White House. I think during our extended debate on ANWR we had an extended discussion about the attitude of the White House that did not prevail in this body. I think what is germane, however, is the attitude of the White House with regard to the sanctions on Iran and Libya. They are quite clear, and I think there is a notable similarity. Those sanctions were initiated in retaliation to terrorist activities associated with Libya. What was it? The downing of Pan American flight 103 over Scotland. That is why we took that action. It was most appropriate. In Iran, in 1979, it was the Embassy takeover and the terrorist activities associated with that. So we have a parallel. I do not think there is any question about it.…”