Hank outlines his thoughts on Iran policy in the Sunday (11-1-2009) AJC

 

While we remain prepared to fight in self-defense at a moment’s notice, Americans have made it clear they favor tough, smart diplomacy to secure U.S. interests abroad. Eight years of saber-rattling without diplomatic engagement did nothing to set back the Iranian nuclear program. And while there are no guarantees that engagement will produce the results we desire, it is without question the proper tack for the United States at this time.

 

Congress will soon authorize the Obama Administration to impose harsh sanctions on Iran’s petroleum sector should the president deem such action necessary. I am proud to have assisted in drafting that legislation, of which I am a cosponsor. It will add a formidable arrow to the president’s quiver.

 

I harbor no illusions that Iran will succumb to U.S. pressure overnight. Iranian diplomats have proven themselves shrewd manipulators. But the time is right for a tough diplomatic strategy – multilateral engagement supported by the unique resources and credibility of the United States – that will offer Iran the opportunity to do right while providing for further isolation and punishment should Iran continue to ignore the demands of the world.

 

http://www.ajc.com/opinion/pro-con-on-iran-182809.html?printArticle=y