WASHINGTON, D.C. – The US and Iran wrapped up a meeting in Geneva trying to reach a deal on Iran’s nuclear program. The President said they’re trying to work out a deal through diplomacy but has threatened to strike Iran if they continue their nuclear ambitions. We interviewed both of Pennsylvania’s Senators about Iran. They’re hopeful diplomacy will prevail but are adamant that Iran should not build up their nuclear capabilities.
After hours of negotiations in Geneva, the Oman delegation, which moderated talks between Iran and the United States, said “significant progress in the negotiation” but did not provide additional details. So far, there’s no signs of a deal regarding Tehran’s nuclear program.
The President has built up a large military presence in the region, leaving the Iranians, Americans and the world wondering if there could be additional military strikes on Iran.
“I think all of us in the Senate agree Iran cannot acquire a nuclear weapon,” said Sen. John Fetterman (D- PA).
In a joint interview with Pennsylvania Senators Fetterman and Dave McCormick (R- PA), both said they supported last year’s military strike on Iran’s nuclear sites. Even after that strike, they said Iran still poses a threat to Israel and the United States.
“I do believe that strike was successful but they are trying to rebuild that,” said Sen. Fetterman. “And last time there was a treaty, that resulted in about 900 pounds, just below weapons grade uranium enrichment. So clearly that’s their goal and if they have that goal, their top priority is to destroy the state of Israel. So, here’s where we are and if you really want to be serious, this is why I absolutely support everything the administration has done thus far.”
We told the Senators it’s concerning to hear the threat Iran poses against the United States. We asked what message they could share with Americans to help calm any fears. Senator McCormick’s response:
“The President and the United States have given Iran every opportunity to stand down,” said Sen. McCormick. “Every opportunity to stop killing its people, every opportunity to end the threat that nuclear threat that could destroy America if we allow that to continue and persist. I think the best way to keep America safe is to keep the Mullahs and Ayatollah Khamenei, the people who say they want to destroy America don’t have the ability to do so.”
Sen. McCormick adds he believes the President has been thoughtful and incremental in his approach by giving the US options on how to deal with the Iran situation.
