Wexler Condems Iranian Missile Tests
Urges Stronger Sanctions on Iran

(Washington, DC) Today, Congressman Robert Wexler (D-FL) strongly condemned the Iranian government’s provocative and aggressive long-range missile tests that took place earlier today and urged the P5+1, which includes the United States, Russia, United Kingdom, France, China and Germany, to strengthen sanctions on Iran.  These latest missile tests come on the heels of recent short-range Iranian missile tests and last week’s disclosure of a second, undeclared uranium enrichment plant near the Iranian city of Qum.  On Thursday, the United States, as part of the P5+1, will meet directly with Iranian officials in Geneva.

“I strongly condemn the Iranian government’s provocative missile tests, its failure to disclose a second enrichment plant, and its continued and deliberate failure to live up to its international obligations under the non-proliferation treaty.  These belligerent missile tests and the disclosure of another secret nuclear site are just the latest examples of Iranian intransigence and highlight the importance of thwarting Iran’s nuclear ambitions and strengthening economic sanctions. 

“While I support direct American engagement with Iran, as part of the P5+1, it is clear that Iranian leaders, who have for decades lied and obfuscated efforts of the International Atomic Energy Agency to fully determine the scope and nature of its nuclear program, are unwilling to cooperate with the international community, further destabilizing the Middle East, the Caspian region, and threatening America’s allies.  It is time for the P5+1, especially Russia and China, which oppose Iran developing nuclear weapons, to support steps to strengthen and expand sanctions on Iran.  I applaud the Obama Administration for laying the groundwork, along with European allies, for debilitating sanctions on Tehran should the Iranian government fail to meet American and international demands. ” 

Congressman Robert Wexler is Chairman of the Subcommittee on Europe and a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Judiciary Committee. Recently, Congressman Wexler served as an advisor on Middle East issues to President Barack Obama during his 2008 presidential campaign.

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