Both supporters and opponents of the multinational nuclear accord with Iran say that to maintain U.S. credibility in enforcing the deal, the White House must move forward with sanctions on Iranafter two missile tests in the fall.
The administration in late December told lawmakers it planned to impose new financial penalties on nearly a dozen companies and individuals for their alleged role in developing Irans ballistic missile program. It then reversed course, saying it needed more time for diplomatic work with the Iranian government, but it hasnt given a timeline for when they would be imposed.
The delay has put some Democrats, particularly those who represent large Jewish constituencies and donors, in an uncomfortable position. Many such lawmakers agonized this summer over whether to support the nuclear deal, which was opposed by Israel, saying their backing was contingent on strict oversight of Irans behavior.
They ought to impose sanctions because we have to show we take this seriously, Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D., N.Y.), who backed the nuclear deal, said in a recent interview. Iran is very destabilizing, very aggressive and very badly behaved and we have to do what we can to stop that.
We will issue those sanctions and those designations at the appropriate time. Theres no question about it, Denis McDonough, the presidents chief of staff, said on Fox News Sunday.
By The Wall Street Journal
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