Wendy Sherman: “This resolution imposes extraordinary restrictions on this President, an extraordinary President who needs extraordinary…”

“This resolution imposes extraordinary restrictions on this President, an extraordinary President who needs extraordinary restrictions. This is best exemplified by the President's gratuitous comment that he would hit cultural sites in Iran. Not only is that a war crime, but it is a mistake because it drives the Iranian people toward the regime while alienating our European allies whose support for our sanctions is critical for them to work. The minority leader came to this floor and said Democrats were dupes of the Islamic Republic. I will compare my record of efforts against the Islamic Republic of Iran with those of any other Member. You could argue whether Soleimani's death makes us safer or not over the next few months. We have removed a terrorist mastermind from the battlefield, but we have inspired the other terrorists. The real issue is the effect on Iran's program. That program is more robust today than it was a week ago, as Iran has employed more centrifuges and is building a larger stockpile, all without our European friends, who are still in the JCPOA taking any action against Iran. There was no policy process on the golf course where the President made this decision. He heard not from a single expert on Iranian politics, religion, or the economy.…”