Lincoln Diaz-Balart: “I rise in support of the Iran-Libya Sanctions Extension Act. I do not believe that now is the time to end the provisions…”

“I rise in support of the Iran-Libya Sanctions Extension Act. I do not believe that now is the time to end the provisions set out under ILSA. While I hope that the internal situation in Iran and Libya may one day merit lifting the provisions of ILSA, it does not appear to be the case at this time. Recognizing the tenuous nature of peace in the region, and our continued support of our ally, Israel, I believe we must support the Iran-Libya Sanctions Extension Act. Iran is still actively seeking to obtain weapons of mass destruction (WMD) assisted by China, Russia, and North Korea. Such a threat to our allies, such as Israel, and to international peace and security is not indicative of a state concerned with immediate reform. According to the State Department, Iran remains an active state sponsor of international terrorism. Any state that resorts to terrorism is cowardly and certainly deserves no special consideration. I also would like to stress that Iran continues to commit human rights abuses, particularly against members of certain religious faiths. Libya has not yet compensated the families of the victims of Pan Am flight 103. Libya also continues to harbor and foster terrorism and is likely seeking weapons of mass destruction. Given these realities and many others, I again do not believe now is the time to end sanctions on Iran and Libya.”