Joe Crowley: “I rise today to condemn the actions of the Iranian government for their treatment of the 13 Iranian Jews they now hold.…”

“I rise today to condemn the actions of the Iranian government for their treatment of the 13 Iranian Jews they now hold. Numerous Members of this body and the international community have come forward to express their outrage at this travesty of justice, and I join them in their anger. Mr. Speaker, these 13 Jews have been wrongly imprisoned. Some have even been forced to confess to imagined crimes. When President Katami was elected in Iran, it was on a platform of moderation and reform supported by all the Iranian people. In response to his election, the United States made good will overtures toward Iran, including the lifting of sanctions on the import of Iranian foodstuffs like pistachios and carpets, as well as the easing of travel restrictions. Yet, despite the rejection of hard-liners in the last election, the leaders in Iran are still on the wrong track. At a time when the United States has sought to improve relations with the Iranian people, the government of Iran must reciprocate and respect fundamental human rights and act as a responsible member of the world community. When travesties such as this trial continue, it should concern us about our policy towards Iran. The Iranian government must put an end to this travesty, free the 13 and leave them and their families to live in peace. I urge my colleagues to speak out on this issue and cosponsor H. Con. Res.…”