The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) on Friday responded to the framework deal on Iran's nuclear program unveiled the day before, warning that the deal leaves "many unanswered questions." "While we all would welcome a diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear program, there many unanswered questions whether the deal has the potential to achieve what President (Barack) Obama has sought in terms of reducing Iran’s ability to build a nuclear weapon," said ADL National Director Abraham H. Foxman in a statement. "The proposed accord has many obstacles to it because Iran simply cannot be trusted," Foxman warned. "The apparent rush to remove sanctions gives Iran an incentive to comply with the terms of the agreement, but once sanctions are removed, then what? The Iranian regime has not changed, and we do not expect a change in its behavior." Explaining his reservations regarding the Islamic regime, the ADL director added, "Iran’s history of covert activity, noncompliance, and never owning up to that history warrants strong skepticism. Based on Iran’s history of non-compliance and continuing aggression throughout the region, we assume Iran will continue to seek a nuclear-weapon capability and frustrate the implementation of the comprehensive verification mechanisms described in the agreed parameters." "We worry that disputes over monitoring and verification activities will be dragged out and allow Iran time and space for illicit activities," added Foxman, highlighting the dangers of leaving Iran with all its nuclear facilities intact and still enriching uranium at a reduced level, as the deal does. Congress must get involved Foxman explained what he sees as the best way for the deal to move forward, calling for Congress to be given an active role. "Now is the time for robust congressional review of what may be achieved and may not be because there are a lot of unanswered questions as to the implementation and the verification," he said. Foxman referenced US President Barack Obama's White House announcement, saying "over the next few weeks, experts, the American public and Congress should have an opportunity to hear more from the administration, to analyze the outline and engage in the 'robust debate' the president has encouraged." "Congress will have a critically important role to play on behalf of the American people as it engages with the Administration in this process," he said.
