IRAN NOT ACTING IN GOOD FAITH, TIME FOR UN TO RESOLVE CRISIS

Iran’s announcement that it would not yet respond to the international offer of incentives to end its uranium enrichment program is unfortunate but not surprising.  Iran has not acted in good faith throughout this entire process and continues to operate outside the rules of global diplomacy. Its demand for a "long process" of negotiations is another indication that it seeks to delay and obfuscate to gain more time to develop its nuclear program.   As Co-Chair of the Iran Working Group, I find this completely unacceptable.

The United Nations Security Council must meet, as they have promised, and consider what measures are necessary to resolve this crisis. While serious negotiations should continue and remain the primary focus of the international community, other options must also be considered. The world must be prepared to go forward with a gasoline embargo or other sanctions that would force Iran's leaders to the bargaining table. That is why Rep. Mark Kirk (R-IL) and I introduced legislation urging action, including the possibility of gasoline sanctions against Iran, if the government does not suspend uranium enrichment and return to meaningful negotiations.

I will continue to call for tough action toward Iran until they cease their nuclear program.  We must not stand by and let this dangerous regime acquire nuclear weapons. 

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