Hastings' Statement on Iran Ballistic Missile Test

Statement

Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (FL-20) made the following statement after the Republic of Iran conducted a ballistic missile test in violation of U.N. Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2231:

"When I announced my opposition to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, my decision was based on a number of considerations, chief among them the question of Iran's trustworthiness. I was wary that aspects of the plan that allowed Iran to remain a nuclear threshold state while simultaneously reaping the benefits of sanctions relief were highly problematic. Given Iran's history of deception, I called for a better deal.

"Iran this week tested nuclear capable ballistic missiles, in violation of UNSC resolutions and the JCPOA. It is not the first test they have conducted since the JCPOA was enacted. Three times now, Iran has violated UN restrictions, flauntingly violating international law and threatening our allies and assets in the Middle East. All the while, Iran has continued to fund terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and call for the destruction of Israel. This is entirely unacceptable.

"With these continued provocations, Iran has proved that it is still a threat, and that it has no respect for the agreement to which it has bound itself. The United States and the international community must make it clear that Iran will be made to honor the agreement that it signed, or face harsh consequences. I will work with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that Iran is held accountable and that the necessary actions are taken to enforce the JCPOA and protect the safety of our allies in the region."

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