Nydia M. Velazquez: “An Iran with a nuclear weapon would present an existential threat to Israel, destabilize the region and undermine U.S.…”

“An Iran with a nuclear weapon would present an existential threat to Israel, destabilize the region and undermine U.S. security interests. This agreement is our best option for avoiding such a scenario. If Congress rejects this agreement, there is a high probability Iran will continue developing weapons grade plutonium and uranium. That could result in American military action--something I believe we should avoid--and that the American people oppose. A U.S. strike would be costly, causing loss of life on both sides--and could lead to attacks on Israel. Yet, it would only postpone Iran's nuclear weapons development by a few years. Clearly, a strong, enforceable diplomatic solution is superior. Let's be clear--this agreement is enforceable. The monitoring and inspection provisions are more intrusive than any previous agreement. Most importantly, they will prevent Iran from producing fissionable material without the international community knowing. There are some who suggest that even with this agreement Iran might still acquire nuclear weapons in the long term. While some provisions of this agreement are indeed time limited and the world will need to revisit this issue, this agreement remains our best chance of thwarting the immediate threat. Many estimates suggest Iran is two to three months away from acquiring a nuclear weapon--and this agreement addresses that very imminent threat. Mr. Speaker, I have heard from constituents on all sides of the issue.…”