Barbara Mikulski: “I rise to support the Iran Nonproliferation Act. We are faced with an historic opportunity to send a strong message to…”

“I rise to support the Iran Nonproliferation Act. We are faced with an historic opportunity to send a strong message to nations around the world--we will not sit by idle as goods, services or technology are transferred to Iran that contribute significantly to its ability to develop nuclear, chemical or biological weapons or ballistic or cruise missiles. This legislation provides the Administration with useful tools to combat the spread of dangerous weapons technology and to discourage nuclear proliferation. It also enhances U.S. efforts to monitor Iranian proliferation. This legislation demonstrates our commitment to prevent the proliferation of dangerous nuclear weapons to countries that threaten our national security as well as the security of allies--such as Israel and Europe. The Middle East is of vital strategic importance to the U.S.--and our interests and Israel's security are threatened by the continuing build-up of advanced conventional weapons by `rogue regimes' in the region. For this reason, U.S. support for Israel must go beyond economic and military aid to Israel--it must meet the very real challenges that will face Israel and the United States in this new century, such as limiting the threats of weapons of mass destruction.”