Schiff Supports U.N. Security Council Efforts to Stop Iran's Nuclear Weapons Program
Washington, D.C. - Today, Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA) sent a letter to the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council thanking them for their response to Iran’s resumption of nuclear activities and encouraging continued vigilance.
“Iran's non-compliance with its international commitments must be met by a united international community,” said Schiff. “The Security Council must show unity and resolve to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.”
- The letter thanks China, France, Russia, and the United Kingdom for requesting a report of Iran’s nuclear program to the Security Council by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors. The letter catalogues shared concerns over Iran’s nuclear program. These concerns include:
- Misleading the international community about its nuclear efforts after signing the Additional Protocol to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)
- Not cooperating with the IAEA on an inquiry of its nuclear activities in June 2004.
- Violating a November 2004 agreement with the EU to suspend uranium enrichment.
- Allegedly engaging in a clandestine effort, dubbed Green Salt, which includes uranium processing, high explosives, and missile warhead design.
- Declaring that a United Nations member state must be wiped off the map.
The letter also urges the Security Council to strengthen inspection and diplomacy efforts and to establish consequences to continued non-compliance. The UN Security Council will take up this issue again in early March after the release of a detailed report documenting Iran’s activities.
Congressman Schiff is a former federal prosecutor and the co-founder of the Democratic Study Group on National Security. He serves on both the House Judiciary and International Relations committees. He represents California’s 29th Congressional District, which includes the communities of Alhambra, Altadena, Burbank, East Pasadena, East San Gabriel, Glendale, Monterey Park, Pasadena, San Gabriel, South Pasadena and Temple City.
-30-