May 15, 2012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2687 Koreans. I even had the privilege to work EXPRESSING SENSE OF HOUSE RE- (2) has characterized Iran as the ‘‘most ac- closely with the late Congressman Solarz, who GARDING IMPORTANCE OF PRE- tive state sponsor of terrorism’’; was Chairman of the East Asian and Pacific VENTING IRAN FROM ACQUIRING Whereas Iran has provided weapons, train- Affairs, the same subcommittee of which I am A NUCLEAR WEAPONS CAPA- ing, funding, and direction to terrorist the Ranking Member today. I am grateful for BILITY groups, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and Shi- ite militias in Iraq that are responsible for his leadership and understanding of the Asia Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I the murders of hundreds of American forces Pacific region. move to suspend the rules and agree to and innocent civilians; Just as Ambassador Lilley and Congress- the resolution (H. Res. 568) expressing Whereas, on July 28, 2011, the Department man Solarz worked hard to protect the human the sense of the House of Representa- of the Treasury charged that the Govern- rights of the North Korean people, we must re- tives regarding the importance of pre- ment of Iran had forged a ‘‘secret deal’’ with main vigilant in helping the people of North venting the Government of Iran from al Qaeda to facilitate the movement of al Korea who struggle daily to escape the op- acquiring a nuclear weapons capa- Qaeda fighters and funding through Iranian pression and tyranny of the North Korean re- bility, as amended. territory; gime. The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Whereas in October 2011, senior leaders of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Again, I thank Chairwoman ROS-LEHTINEN tion. (IRGC) Quds Force were implicated in a ter- and Ranking Member BERMAN for their leader- The text of the resolution is as fol- rorist plot to assassinate Saudi Arabia’s Am- ship and I urge my colleagues to pass H.R. lows: bassador to the United States on United 4240. H. RES. 568 States soil; Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I have no Whereas since at least the late 1980s, Iran Whereas, on December 26, 2011, the United further speakers. I yield back the bal- has engaged in a sustained and well-docu- Nations General Assembly passed a resolu- ance of my time. mented pattern of illicit and deceptive ac- tion denouncing the serious human rights tivities to acquire a nuclear capability; abuses occurring in Iran, including torture, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I Whereas the United Nations Security cruel and degrading treatment in detention, have no further requests for time. I Council has adopted multiple resolutions the targeting of human rights defenders, vio- yield back the balance of my time. since 2006 demanding the full and sustained lence against women, and ‘‘the systematic Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in suspension of all uranium enrichment-re- and serious restrictions on freedom of peace- support of H.R. 4240, the Ambassador James lated and reprocessing activities by the Ira- ful assembly’’, as well as severe restrictions R. Lilley and Congressman Stephen J. Solarz nian Government and its full cooperation on the rights to ‘‘freedom of thought, con- with the International Atomic Energy Agen- North Korean Human Rights Reauthorization science, religion or belief’’; cy (IAEA) on all outstanding issues related Whereas the Governments of the P5+1 na- Act of 2012. I commend Chairman ROS- to its nuclear activities, particularly those tions (the United States, the United King- LEHTINEN and Ranking Member BERMAN and concerning the possible military dimensions dom, France, Russia, China, and Germany) the members of the House Foreign Affairs of its nuclear program; have made repeated efforts to engage the Ira- Committee for bringing this important measure Whereas Iran remains in violation of all of nian Government in dialogue about Iran’s to the floor. the aforementioned United Nations Security nuclear program and its international com- Ambassador Lilley, as director of the Com- Council resolutions; mitments under the Treaty on the Non-Pro- Whereas, on November 8, 2011, the IAEA mittee for Human Rights in North Korea and liferation Nuclear Weapons; issued an extensive report that— Whereas talks between the P5+1 and Iran Congressman Solarz, as chairman of the (1) documents ‘‘serious concerns regarding regarding Iran’s nuclear program resumed on House subcommittee on East Asia and later possible military dimensions to Iran’s nu- April 14, 2012, in Istanbul, Turkey, and the as co-chairman of the Committee on Human clear programme’’; (2) states that ‘‘Iran has carried out activi- parties agreed to meet again on May 23, 2012, Rights in North Korea, refused to stand by si- in Baghdad, Iraq; lently as the North Korean government op- ties relevant to the development of a nuclear device’’; and Whereas in the 2006 State of the Union Ad- pressed, abused and murdered its own peo- (3) states that the efforts described in para- dress, President Bush stated that ‘‘The Ira- ple. Their leadership and advocacy helped to graphs (1) and (2) may be ongoing; nian Government is defying the world with raise awareness about the deplorable condi- Whereas as of November 2008, Iran had pro- its nuclear ambitions, and the nations of the tions endured by the North Korean people, in- duced, according to the IAEA— world must not permit the Iranian regime to cluding the government’s practice of executing (1) approximately 630 kilograms of ura- gain nuclear weapons.’’; on-the-spot attempted defectors. nium-235 enriched to 3.5 percent; and Whereas, on March 31, 2010, President (2) no uranium-235 enriched to 20 percent; Obama stated that the ‘‘consequences of a This resolution encourages the United Whereas as of November 2011, Iran had pro- nuclear-armed Iran are unacceptable’’; States government to continue working with duced, according to the IAEA— Whereas in his State of the Union Address foreign governments and with the Peoples Re- (1) nearly 5,000 kilograms of uranium-235 on January 24, 2012, President Obama stated, public of China in particular, to help resettle enriched to 3.5 percent; and ‘‘Let there be no doubt: America is deter- refugees who escape North Korea. Addition- (2) 79.7 kilograms of uranium-235 enriched mined to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear ally, the bill recognizes the efforts undertaken to 20 percent; weapon, and I will take no options off the in North Korea by the Broadcasting Board of Whereas, on January 9, 2011, IAEA inspec- table to achieve that goal.’’; tors confirmed that the Iranian Government Governors and encourages the board to meet Whereas Secretary of Defense Panetta had begun enrichment activities at the stated, in December 2011, that it was unac- its goal of broadcasting 12 hours of daily radio Fordow site, including possibly enrichment transmissions into that country. ceptable for Iran to acquire nuclear weapons, of uranium-235 to 20 percent; reaffirmed that all options were on the table The United States has the largest inter- Whereas Iran has repeatedly refused re- to thwart Iran’s nuclear weapons efforts, and national refugee resettlement program in the quests by IAEA inspectors to visit its vowed that if the United States gets ‘‘intel- Parchin military facility, a suspected site of world. Since this Act was originally passed, ligence that they are proceeding with devel- Iranian activities related to testing of a nu- 128 North Koreans have been successfully re- oping a nuclear weapon then we will take clear weapon; whatever steps necessary to stop it’’; settled, including 23 in the last year. The suc- Whereas if Iran were successful in acquir- Whereas, on December 1, 2011, Deputy Sec- cess of this program is a fitting tribute to the ing a nuclear weapon capability, it would retary of State William J. Burns and Israeli memory and work of Ambassador Lilley and likely spur other countries in the region to Congressman Solarz. consider developing their own nuclear weap- Deputy Foreign Minister Daniel Ayalon issued a joint statement in Washington, DC, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ons capabilities; Whereas, on December 6, 2011, Prince Turki which emphasized that ‘‘Iran is the greatest question is on the motion offered by challenge we face today in the Middle East’’ the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. al-Faisal of Saudi Arabia stated that if inter- national efforts to prevent Iran from obtain- and that ‘‘[c]ontinued efforts by the inter- ROS-LEHTINEN) that the House suspend ing nuclear weapons fail, ‘‘we must, as a national community are critical to bringing the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 4240, as duty to our country and people, look into all about change in Iranian behavior and pre- amended. options we are given, including obtaining venting Iran from developing a nuclear The question was taken; and (two- these weapons ourselves’’; weapons capability.’’; thirds being in the affirmative) the Whereas top Iranian leaders have repeat- Whereas the Department of Defense’s Jan- edly threatened the existence of the State of uary 2012 Strategic Guidance stated that rules were suspended and the bill, as United States defense efforts in the Middle amended, was passed. Israel, pledging to ‘‘wipe Israel off the map’’; Whereas the Department of State— East would be aimed ‘‘to prevent Iran’s de- A motion to reconsider was laid on (1) has designated Iran as a ‘‘state sponsor velopment of a nuclear weapons capability the table. of terrorism’’ since 1984; and and counter its destabilizing policies’’;

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:29 May 16, 2012 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MY7.023 H15MYPT1 tjames on DSK6SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H2688 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 15, 2012 Whereas, on March 4, 2012, President the type needed for nuclear arms-re- we have passed five bills expressing Obama stated that ‘‘Iran’s leaders should un- lated tests. This was based on informa- congressional support for this policy. derstand that I do not have a policy of con- tion from inside an Iranian military These bills have been supported by tainment; I have a policy to prevent Iran base. nearly every Member of the House. from obtaining a nuclear weapon.’’; and Whereas, on April 9, 2012, President Obama Iran remains the world’s leading The resolution before us today re- stated ‘‘[T]his continuing pursuit of nuclear state sponsor of terrorism, aiding mul- minds us, as well as the world, how weapons capability continues to be a major tiple groups, including Hezbollah and Iran has flaunted its flagrant disregard challenge.’’: Now, therefore, be it Hamas, which continue to destabilize for U.N. Security Council resolutions, Resolved, That the House of Representa- the Middle East and which are respon- is an active state sponsor of terrorism, tives— sible for the deaths of Americans. It has engaged in serious human rights (1) warns that time is limited to prevent was only a few months ago that U.S. abuses against its own citizens, and the Government of Iran from acquiring a nu- officials foiled a planned attack on plotted a heinous terrorist attack on clear weapons capability; (2) urges continued and increasing eco- U.S. soil that was commissioned by the American soil. nomic and diplomatic pressure on Iran to se- Iranian regime, and the Iranian regime This resolution also reminds us of cure an agreement with the Government of is believed to have been behind the at- the urgency, as well as the seriousness, Iran that includes— tacks against Israeli Embassies that of the nuclear issue. And so, as the (A) the full and sustained suspension of all took place earlier this year. window is closing, we send a clear mes- uranium enrichment-related and reprocess- I have much more to say, Mr. Speak- sage that the House is aligned with the ing activities; er, but at this time I will reserve the administration in thoroughly rejecting (B) complete cooperation with the IAEA on balance of my time. containment, a policy that would have all outstanding questions related to Iran’s Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in nuclear activities, including— us sit back and watch Iran get the (i) the implementation of the Additional strong support of H. Res. 568, express- bomb, then try to contain it as we con- Protocol to the Treaty on the Non-Prolifera- ing the sense of the House of Rep- tained the Soviet Union. tion of Nuclear Weapons; and resentatives regarding the importance The SPEAKER pro tempore. The (ii) the verified end of Iran’s ballistic mis- of preventing the Government of Iran time of the gentleman has expired. sile programs; and from acquiring a nuclear weapons capa- Mr. BERMAN. I yield myself an addi- (C) a permanent agreement that verifiably bility, and yield myself 3 minutes. tional 30 seconds. assures that Iran’s nuclear program is en- Mr. Speaker, this resolution is ex- In fact, we have no choice but to stop tirely peaceful; tremely timely, as next week the five Iran’s nuclear weapons program before (3) expresses support for the universal permanent members of the U.N. Secu- rights and democratic aspirations of the Ira- it ever reaches that point. nian people; rity Council and Germany will once Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my col- (4) affirms that it is a vital national inter- again sit down with Iran to negotiate leagues to support this important reso- est of the United States to prevent the Gov- secession of Iran’s nuclear weapons lution. I reserve the balance of my ernment of Iran from acquiring a nuclear program. What better time for this time. weapons capability; body to send an unambiguous message Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I (5) strongly supports United States policy that Iran must never be allowed to yield myself such time as I may con- to prevent the Government of Iran from ac- achieve a nuclear weapons capability sume. quiring a nuclear weapons capability; and that its nuclear weapons program (6) rejects any policy that would rely on ef- Mr. Speaker, as we know, Iran con- forts to contain a nuclear weapons-capable must end once and for all? That’s ex- tinues to sponsor violent extremist Iran; and actly what this resolution does. groups in Iraq and Afghanistan that (7) urges the President to reaffirm the The United States must continue to have killed our men and women in uni- unacceptability of an Iran with nuclear- take the lead in preventing Iran from form. With a nuclear weapons capa- weapons capability and opposition to any obtaining the capability to build a nu- bility, the regime would dramatically policy that would rely on containment as an clear weapon. If Iran were to achieve increase its ability to threaten the option in response to the Iranian nuclear that capability, neighbors like Saudi United States and our allies. threat. Arabia and Egypt would want that ca- We are running out of time to stop The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- pability as well. Others in the region the nightmare of a nuclear weapons-ca- ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from would begin to defer to Iran as if it al- pable Iran from becoming a reality. Es- Florida (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN) and the ready were a nuclear power. And worst timates from the U.S. and Israeli offi- gentleman from California (Mr. BER- of all, once Iran acquires the capa- cials indicate that Iran could develop MAN) each will control 20 minutes. bility, it would be able to build an ac- nuclear weapons in less than 1 year. The Chair recognizes the gentle- tual nuclear weapon so quickly that we And even before the regime actually woman from Florida. may not be able to stop it. develops nuclear weapons, Iran may GENERAL LEAVE Stopping Iran from acquiring a nu- enter into what the Israeli Defense Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I clear weapons capability is not simply Minister calls a ‘‘zone of immunity,’’ ask unanimous consent that all Mem- an American priority, but a global re- and after that point we would have bers may have 5 legislative days to re- sponsibility. very few options left to actually stop vise and extend and to submit extra- I want to be straightforward about Iran from going nuclear. neous materials for the RECORD. my view. A regime that brutalizes its Right now, the regime is doing all it The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there own people, trains, arms, and dis- can to run down the clock and enter objection to the request of the gentle- patches terrorist proxies, props up the that zone of immunity. The most re- woman from Florida? repugnant Assad dictatorship, denies cent set of negotiations are just an- There was no objection. the Holocaust, and incites violence other way for Iran to hold off Western Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. I yield myself against and kills Americans should sanctions and buy more time to further such time as I may consume. never be allowed to reach the nuclear their capabilities. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support threshold. of House Resolution 568, which I intro- The urgent nature of the Iranian nu- b 1750 duced, together with the distinguished clear threat demands that the United We need to stop the regime before it ranking member of the committee, the States work with our allies to do ev- possesses the capability to develop nu- gentleman from California (Mr. BER- erything possible diplomatically, po- clear weapons, not before it makes a MAN), my friend. litically, and economically to prevent decision to develop nuclear weapons, The Iranian regime continues to pose Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapons because we may not know that they an immediate and growing threat to capability. No option, as the President have actually made that decision until the United States, to our allies, and to has said, can be taken off the table. it is too late. Once that regime enters the Iranian people. In fact, just over Mr. Speaker, the policy of preventing into the zone of immunity, it can de- the weekend, it was reported that the Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapons cide at any time to develop nuclear IAEA discovered a drawing that shows capability is not unfamiliar to the weapons, and we would probably not be an explosive containment chamber of House of Representatives. Since 2009, able to stop them.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:29 May 16, 2012 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MY7.034 H15MYPT1 tjames on DSK6SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 15, 2012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2689 With that, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the MAN, on their strong and unwavering Congress on record as opposing a diplo- balance of my time. leadership on this critically important matic solution, paving the way toward Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am issue to the national security of the war with Iran. In the past, Congress pleased to yield 2 minutes to the mi- United States of America and to inter- has rejected its power to declare war, nority whip, my friend from Maryland national and global security as well. and now we want to tell the President (Mr. HOYER). Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I that he can’t declare diplomacy. Con- Mr. HOYER. I thank the gentleman yield myself such time as I may con- gress must reject resolutions that for yielding. sume. could lead the U.S. into yet another Mr. Speaker, the gentleman from For the Iranian regime, the posses- disastrous and costly war and tie the California has been a leader on this sion of the capability to produce a nu- President’s hands as he endeavors for a issue as has the chair of the com- clear weapon would be almost as useful peaceful solution. mittee, ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN. Rep- as actually having one. Tehran would Have we not lost enough of our brave resentative BERMAN has been a leader be able to intimidate its neighbors and men and women to causes that are not in Congress when it comes to remind- engage in even more threatening ac- in the interests of the U.S.? ing us of how important it is to prevent tions by reminding us that they could H. Res. 568 lowers the bar for war by the rise in nuclear war and a nuclear- develop nuclear weapons anytime the changing longstanding U.S. policy that armed Iran. We are fortunate as a regime wanted. Tehran might even de- Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons country to have a partnership between cide not to reveal whether or not it had by, instead, drawing the red line for the chair and the ranking member fo- developed nuclear weapons, thereby military action at Iran’s achieving a cused like a laser on this issue. So I keeping the world guessing and off bal- nuclear-weapons capability. The term thank my friend, Mr. BERMAN, and my ance indefinitely, all while claiming in- ‘‘capability’’ is undefined in the under- friend, ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. BER- nocence. Tehran would be in the driv- lying resolution, and it could be ap- MAN has also been instrumental in se- er’s seat, and the security of the plied to any country with a civilian nu- curing funding for the deployment of United States, Israel, and our many clear program, including Japan and the Iron Dome anti-missile system to other allies would be in their hands. Brazil. This resolution, therefore, sets counter the threat from Iranian-sup- We need to make clear that con- a precedent which could cause us to plied short-range rockets in the hands taining a nuclear Iran is not an option, stumble from one war into another. of terror groups like Hamas and that nothing short of stopping Iran And, what, we haven’t had enough Hezbollah. from developing a nuclear-weapons ca- wars? I rise in strong support of the chair pability is good enough. So that is why Not all enrichment is devoted to and ranking member’s resolution, and I Ranking Member BERMAN and I have building bombs. This resolution marks am proud to be a cosponsor with them introduced the resolution before us, a significant shift in U.S. policy that of the resolution. House Resolution 568, which strongly could threaten critical upcoming nego- The most significant threat to peace, supports preventing the Iranian regime tiations with Iran on May 23. It is like- regional security, and American inter- from acquiring a nuclear-weapons ca- ly that a negotiated deal to prevent a ests in the Middle East is Iran’s nu- pability. It rejects any policy that nuclear-armed Iran would provide for clear program. This resolution makes would rely on efforts to contain a nu- Iranian enrichment for peaceful pur- clear that it is in America’s security clear weapons-capable Iran. It supports poses, under the framework of the non- interest not to contain a nuclear Iran, the right and democratic aspirations of proliferation nuclear weapons treaty, but to prevent one. A nuclear Iran the Iranian people. Lastly, it urges the with strict safeguards and inspections. would destabilize an already volatile President to reaffirm the I want to point out, in conclusion, region where so many American troops unacceptability of an Iran with a nu- that Yuval Diskin, the former Shin Bet are stationed—and a region so vital to clear-weapons capability and to oppose chief, has stated that attacking Iran the world’s energy supplies. any policy that would rely on contain- will encourage them to develop a Iran continues to be a sponsor of ment as an option. groups committed to the destruction of With that, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the bomb. our ally Israel and of groups that balance of my time. Meir Dagan, the former Mossad chief, threaten Americans throughout the Mr. BERMAN. I am very pleased to echoed his sentiment by saying: world. Iran is believed to be pursuing yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Attacking Iran is the stupidest thing I’ve not only a nuclear capability but also Ohio (Mr. KUCINICH). ever heard of. It will be followed by a war delivery technologies that could Mr. KUCINICH. I thank my friend with Iran. It’s the kind of thing where we from California, but, unfortunately, I know how it starts but not know how it will threaten our allies in Europe and the end. Middle East as well as American assets must disagree with him. in the region. This resolution contains broad and I think our diplomacy is having an Thankfully, the Obama administra- dangerous language that would under- effect, said General Martin Dempsey, tion has taken a strong lead in con- mine any diplomatic solution regard- Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. fronting Iran. President Obama has ing Iran’s nuclear program. Without Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. I yield myself built a wide coalition of support that explicit language stating there is no such time as I may consume. has imposed the strongest sanctions authorization for military action, this This resolution reaffirms the position Iran has ever faced. In particular, we could be interpreted as a blank check of the House with respect to U.S. pol- are hitting the Iranian Government for war. Former Secretary of State icy on Iran’s nuclear program. Efforts where it hurts most—its oil exports Colin Powell’s chief of staff, Colonel to misrepresent this resolution really and its banking sector. From the very Lawrence Wilkerson, stated: distract from the real problem, which start, his policy has been not contain- This resolution reads like the same piece is the increasing threat posed by Iran’s ment but prevention. of music that got us into the Iraq war. nuclear program and the need to pre- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Did not Congress learn anything vent Iran from obtaining a nuclear time of the gentleman has expired. from being hustled into a war based on weapons capability. Mr. BERMAN. I yield the gentleman misrepresentations? Tehran has repeatedly lied to the an additional 30 seconds. At a time when the U.S. is engaging world about its secret nuclear activi- Mr. HOYER. This resolution reaf- in its first successful direct talks with ties; Tehran has violated international firms the administration’s prevention Iran in years, it is more critical than nonproliferation obligations; and it has policy, and I urge my colleagues to ever for Congress to support these ne- repeatedly threatened to destroy our pass it as a strong sign that Iran must gotiations. Even if language were ally Israel. not be allowed to obtain a nuclear added to H. Res. 568 to make it abso- Just earlier this year, Ayatollah weapon. lutely clear that this bill does not con- Khamenei said: Again, in closing, I want to congratu- stitute an authorization for war and The truly cancerous Israel must be de- late the chair, ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN, that only Congress can make such an stroyed in the region, and this will without and the ranking member, HOWARD BER- authorization, it still puts Members of doubt come to fruition.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:29 May 16, 2012 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MY7.046 H15MYPT1 tjames on DSK6SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H2690 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 15, 2012 b 1800 countries in the region to also build clauses, especially clauses 4 through 7, It is abundantly clear that Iran can- their own nuclear program. which are of some concern to me, but not be trusted with uranium enrich- With that, Mr. Speaker, I want to as- I’m interested in hearing from you. ment or any component of the nuclear sociate myself with the eloquent state- In your view, does this resolution in program. Even the U.N. Security Coun- ments made earlier by our good chair- any way constitute an authorization cil resolutions have demanded that man, Chairman ROS-LEHTINEN, and my for the use of military force? Mr. BERMAN. Will the gentlelady Iran stop all uranium enrichment and good friend, Ranking Member BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. yield? reprocessing. Ms. EDWARDS. I yield to the gen- Unless compelled to change course, Res. 568, expressing the sense of the House tleman from California. Iran will soon have all of the basic of Representatives regarding the importance of preventing the Government of Iran from ac- Mr. BERMAN. Absolutely not. This components or capabilities to produce resolution is no way intended and in no a nuclear weapon. The only thing that quiring a nuclear weapons capability. I want to thank House Foreign Affairs Chairwoman way can it be interpreted as an author- would be left for them to do will be to ization for the use of military force. It ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN of Florida and Ranking put the pieces together. is a nonbinding resolution that en- Member HOWARD BERMAN of California for According to the International dorses a diplomatic resolution to the Atomic Energy Agency, Iran is expand- their leadership on this very important matter. I also want to thank all the cosponsors and Iranian nuclear program. It includes no ing its stockpiles of uranium, advanc- operative authorizations regarding the ing its missile capabilities, and bury- supporters of this critical resolution. H. Res. 568 reiterates the United States pol- use of force. ing and hiding its nuclear infrastruc- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The icy against the Government of Iran from ever ture. As if that were not enough, the time of the gentlewoman from Mary- acquiring nuclear arms capability and ex- smoking gun in the IAEA’s November land has expired. 2011 report was that Iran carried out, presses the U.S.’s strong support for ensuring Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I ‘‘work on the development of an indige- that the universal rights and aspirations for de- yield myself such time as I may con- nous design of a nuclear weapon, in- mocracy of the Iranian people are protected. sume. cluding the testing of components.’’ In It is imperative that the U.S. and the inter- Some may put forth the argument addition, the IAEA uncovered evidence national community understand that a nuclear- that this resolution undermines and that Iran was attempting to minia- capable Iran is a global threat and a danger threatens the ongoing P5+1 negotia- turize a warhead to fit on top of a bal- to the U.S. and just as important to the State tions. The truth is, Mr. Speaker, that listic missile. of Israel where Iranian leaders have continued the Iranian regime is using these nego- As we fast-forward to this weekend, to threaten Israel’s existence by pledging that tiations as a way to buy time and con- drawings were revealed showing a se- Israel must be ‘‘wiped off the map.’’ This is a tinue enrichment without any addi- cret chamber at an Iranian military fa- direct threat to our closest ally in the Middle tional sanctions. cility of the type needed for nuclear East. Iran’s reckless attitude continues to be a Time and again, the United States weapons testing. Again, the regime is stimulus for instability in the Middle East. My has come to the table with Iran, made building up its capacities on all fronts. greatest fear is that a nuclear-capable Iran will concession after concession, and left When it has mastered all of these, cause other countries in the region to build with nothing in return. In one example, Tehran would be able to intimidate its their own nuclear weapons. last month, the Los Angeles Times re- neighbors and engage in even more The United Nations Security Council has ported that U.S. officials are now will- threatening actions, always with the passed many resolutions demanding the sus- ing to let Iran continue enriching ura- threat that it could flip the switch and pension of Iran’s nuclear program but it has nium, even though multiple U.N. Secu- produce nuclear weapons at any time. fallen on deaf ears. In 2011, the International rity Council resolutions demand that At that point, the U.S. and other re- Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported Iran immediately halt uranium enrich- sponsible nations would have no other that Iran’s nuclear program was suspected of ment. And today’s New York Times in- option but to sit in fear of this nuclear- having ‘‘possible military dimensions’’ in their cluded a report, entitled, ‘‘Iran Sees armed state sponsor of terrorism. program and that Iran has continued to enrich Success in Stalling on Nuclear Issue,’’ We must reaffirm our commitment to uranium to levels that are capable of building and the report states: adoption of this resolution and strong- a nuclear weapon. Iran’s negotiation team may be less inter- er sanctions legislation to prevent this The U.S. and our international community ested in reaching a comprehensive settle- doomsday scenario from becoming a re- must continue to enforce economic and polit- ment than in buying time and establishing ality. ical sanctions on Iran. I certainly commend the legitimacy of its enrichment program. With that, I reserve the balance of President Obama and his Administration for I couldn’t say it better. It’s time to my time. maintaining his position in not ‘‘taking any op- stop glorifying negotiations for the Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am tions off the table’’ in preventing Iran from ever sake of negotiations. This resolution very pleased to yield 1 minute to the having a nuclear weapon. The Administration strengthens the U.S. position and our Delegate from American Samoa, the must continue to pressure Iran to agree in leverage. ranking member of the Asia and the having full and complete cooperation with the With that, I reserve the balance of Pacific Subcommittee of the House IAEA in addressing concerns relating to their our time. Foreign Affairs Committee, Mr. nuclear activities. Mr. BERMAN. I am pleased to yield 1 FALEOMAVAEGA. I thank Chairwoman ROS-LEHTINEN and minute to a member of the Foreign Af- (Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA asked and Ranking Member BERMAN again for their lead- fairs Committee, my friend from Flor- was given permission to revise and ex- ership and I urge my colleagues to pass H. ida (Mr. DEUTCH). tend his remarks.) Res. 568. Mr. DEUTCH. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I the gentleman from California, and I it is imperative that the United States continue to reserve the balance of my rise today in strong support of House and the international community un- time. Resolution 568, a resolution making derstand that a nuclear-capable Iran is Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am clear that the United States’ policy to- a global threat and a danger to the very pleased to yield 1 minute to the wards Iran is not one of containment United States and, just as important, gentlelady from Maryland (Ms. but is one of prevention. to the State of Israel, where Iranian EDWARDS). I’m pleased to have co-introduced leaders have continued to threaten Ms. EDWARDS. Thank you, Ranking this resolution with a bipartisan group Israel’s existence by pledging that Member BERMAN, for yielding the time. of colleagues, including the chair, Ms. Israel must be wiped off the map. This I would like to engage the gentleman ROS-LEHTINEN. is a direct threat to our closest ally in in a colloquy. Indeed, this Congress, this adminis- the Middle East. After reading the resolution and tration, and this President understand Iran’s reckless attitude continues to studying it, I just have a couple of that failing to prevent a nuclear-armed be a stimulus for the instability in the questions that I would ask that you Iran would ignite a destabilizing arms Middle East. My greatest fear is that a clarify your understanding about the race in the Middle East, would threat- nuclear-capable Iran will cause other resolution, and that is the resolved en the very existence of our ally Israel,

VerDate Mar 15 2010 04:48 May 16, 2012 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MY7.048 H15MYPT1 tjames on DSK6SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 15, 2012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2691 and would endanger the security of the but we should use, and the world is trade significantly constricted. Their American people. united in using, economic and diplo- economy is being battered, their cur- As Iran faces growing international matic pressure. This does not preclude rency in free-fall. isolation, now is not the time to roll diplomatic resolution. In fact, it makes The President has assembled the back crippling economic sanctions, nor diplomatic resolution more possible. broadest coalition we have seen uniting should we fall victim to this regime’s Of course, ultimately, Iran should de- behind this diplomatic effort. We have penchant of hiding behind the pretense cide that it’s not in her people’s inter- had a range of people in the past who of negotiations simply to buy more est for Iran to pursue nuclear weapons. have been, I think, too sympathetic to time. With this resolution, we will send And we and all nuclear powers should Iran or at least have not stood up to a message to Iran’s regime and to the stop behaving as if we think nuclear them. But they are falling in place world that the U.S. will accept nothing weapons are beneficial for a country. with us. less than a strict policy of prevention This resolution will help move us in Now we are on the verge of what when it comes to this regime’s illicit that direction. hopefully will be encouraging diplo- quest for nuclear weapons. Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, could we matic efforts scheduled to start next Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I get an indication of the time remain- week. The resolution claims to support reserve the balance of my time to close ing on both sides? an endorsed diplomacy but, in fact, the on the resolution. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- timing and the wording undercuts that. Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I do have tleman from California controls 6 min- Now is the time that we ought to be a few more speakers. utes, and the gentlewoman from Flor- united and we ought to be focused. We I am now pleased to yield 1 minute to ida controls 10 minutes. ought to make sure that we have a the ranking member of the Europe and Mr. BERMAN. I thank the Speaker. positive environment to seize on the Eurasia Subcommittee of the House I yield 11⁄2 minutes to the other ex- pain that is being inflicted on the re- Foreign Affairs Committee, the gen- pert from New Jersey (Mr. ANDREWS). gime, to be able to capitalize on the co- tleman from New York (Mr. MEEKS). (Mr. ANDREWS asked and was given alition and be able to make progress. Mr. MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise permission to revise and extend his re- Instead, we have a resolution—and today in support of H. Res. 568. This marks.) these concepts have been bandied about resolution supports President Obama’s Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I would now for several months—but we have a policy towards Iran. like to thank Chairwoman ROS- resolution that’s rushed to the House As the President stated during the LEHTINEN and Ranking Member BER- floor, unsettlingly timed before the ne- AIPAC annual convention in March: MAN for bringing this resolution for- gotiations. Iran’s leaders should understand that I do ward. I regret but do not doubt its ne- It never had a hearing. It never had a not have a policy of containment; I have a cessity. markup. There was no opportunity to policy to prevent Iran from obtaining a nu- The issue raised in this resolution is find out what, actually, the implica- clear weapon. not whether we are authorizing war— tions are of changing a standard from President’s Obama’s commitment to because we clearly are not. The issue is preventing Iran from ‘‘acquiring’’ nu- Israel’s security is ironclad. America not whether the President would have clear weapons to preventing Iran from has stood with Israel under this admin- to come to this Chamber—any Presi- ‘‘obtaining’’ a nuclear weapons capa- istration which has facilitated unprece- dent—should he conclude that war is bility. These are not small matters, dented levels of security assistance for necessary—because he clearly would. and they bear on the ultimate success Israel, increasing every single year, The issue in this resolution is not of our coalition, the diplomacy, be- even in a tough domestic budget envi- whether we should conduct negotia- cause every expert has concluded that ronment. Above all, President Obama tions but how we should conduct nego- an armed intervention, a military at- has directed his administration to pre- tiations. And this resolution gives us tack against Iran would be disastrous vent—not merely contain—Iran achiev- an emphatic opportunity to say that for all involved. And my colleague ing nuclear weapons capability. when we are negotiating with a coun- from Ohio quoted people from the I urge my colleagues to vote in favor try that has conceived its nuclear Israeli Government who are convinced of this resolution, supporting the weapons program in secret, that has that military action would be folly. President’s position and affirming that brandished its nuclear weapons pro- But the point is, we shouldn’t be at the U.S.-Israel relationship is too im- gram with the rhetoric of hostility, this point. We shouldn’t be casting a portant to be distorted by politics. and for whom the attainment of a nu- cloud over the negotiations. It’s unnec- I thank Chairman ROS-LEHTINEN and clear weapon would be fraught with essary. It’s nonproductive. I would urge Ranking Member HOWARD BERMAN for peril for free people everywhere, then a ‘‘no’’ vote. bringing us together in a united way in the context of that negotiation, our Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield and passing this resolution. position must be that we will not sup- myself the remainder of my time. Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am port or stand for an Iran with nuclear Ms. EDWARDS. Will the gentleman pleased to yield 1 minute to the gen- weapons. yield? tleman from New Jersey, an individual This is the issue. I would urge a Mr. BERMAN. I yield to the gentle- who knows a lot about this subject, Mr. ‘‘yes’’ vote. And, again, I thank the lady from Maryland. HOLT. chair and the ranking member for their Ms. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, if I patriotic and unified leadership on this could just ask the ranking member b 1810 question. whether, under this resolution, the Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am President would be required to come to ranking member. pleased to yield 3 minutes to my friend the Congress for a specific authoriza- The threat of nuclear proliferation is from Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER). tion for the use of military force. the greatest threat to world peace. A Mr. BLUMENAUER. I appreciate the Mr. BERMAN. I thank the gentle- nuclear Iran would destabilize the re- gentleman’s courtesy in permitting me woman for the inquiry. gion and threaten the United States to speak on this. The President is the Commander in and our allies. This is no dispute in this Chamber Chief. There is no authorization for the This resolution is not an authoriza- that a nuclear armed Iran is com- use of force. tion for military force. It is not a call pletely unacceptable. That’s why it Contrary to what was said earlier by for war. I would not support this reso- was so encouraging to hear the Demo- my friend from Ohio, whatever one lution if it were. cratic whip say with assurance—and I thought about the decision to go to Our shared goal must be to persuade think we all agree—that we are hitting war in Iraq, 5 months before that, Con- Iran to end its nuclear weapons pro- Iran where it hurts the most. gress very explicitly provided an au- gram. That’s President Obama’s pur- The news this weekend was filled thorization for the use of force. There pose in agreeing to negotiations. with accounts of ‘‘dark’’ ships of oil is nothing in this resolution, and there That’s our purpose here. The world tankers of Iran that are unable to de- is no intention in this resolution, to does not have many tools available, liver oil. They are having their oil provide that authorization.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 04:59 May 16, 2012 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MY7.049 H15MYPT1 tjames on DSK6SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H2692 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 15, 2012 Nuclear weapons capability—there and reprocessing activities by Iran and its co- map,’’ and I urge my colleagues not to take are three elements, as defined by the operation with the IAEA on all nuclear activi- this threat lightly. The United States has a Director of National Intelligence: ties, including the possible militarization of its demonstrated history of supporting democ- fissile material production, one. De- nuclear program. racy, human rights, and peace throughout the sign, weaponization, and testing of a The IAEA’s extensive report documents ‘‘se- Middle East. A nuclear arms race would be an warhead, two. A delivery vehicle. To be rious concerns’’ regarding military dimensions affront to this ideal. nuclear-capable, you really have to to Iran’s nuclear activity in hopes of devel- Mr. Speaker, I also stand with the people of have to master all three elements. oping a nuclear device. Iran and strongly advocate for their rights and While Iran has the delivery system, If Iran is successful in acquiring a nuclear security. The United Nations’ General Assem- they have not yet mastered—but they weapon capability, it will force other countries bly has condemned Iran for failing to meet are making progress—on steps one and in the region to consider developing their own international human rights standards and ex- two. And if one day, when they’ve mas- nuclear capabilities; notably, Saudi Arabia. pressed concern over a high frequency of exe- tered all the other elements and they Iranian leaders have previously threatened cutions and violations of minority groups’ kick out the inspectors and they shut the existence of Israel, pledging to ‘‘wipe rights. As the United States exercises sanc- off the cameras, I will consider them Israel off the map’’ and since 1984 Iran has tions against Tehran, I would like to highlight nuclear-capable. been recognized by the State Department as the message that we are not seeking to pun- This is about achieving a goal an active sponsor of terrorism. ish the Iranian people and that we wish for through economic sanctions rigorously I feel just as President Obama has pre- them a responsive and stable government. applied to achieve a diplomatic resolu- viously stated, ‘‘that the consequences of a Mr. Speaker, we cannot afford to watch this tion. It is the perfect time to bring up nuclear-armed Iran are unacceptable’’ and we situation continue to escalate while we sit idly this resolution. are determined to prevent Iran from getting a by. President Obama, Secretary of Defense I yield back the balance of my time. nuclear weapon. Panetta, and other American leaders have Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I Our Congress must stand in one voice and united and pledged to prevent Iran’s nuclear yield myself such time as I may con- prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapons weapons capability at any cost. I am proud to sume. capability. be a cosponsor of H. Res 568 and hope that Just 2 months ago, President Obama I ask my colleagues to join me in con- Congress can also unite to become another extended the national emergency, as demning Iran’s nuclear ambitions and vote in powerful voice against Iranian aggression. we heard, with respect to Iran, declar- favor of H. Res. 568. Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, ing that the regime’s activities pose Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support H. Res. 568, ‘‘Express- ‘‘an unusual and extraordinary threat I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 568, ing the sense of the House of Representatives to the national security, foreign policy, a bipartisan resolution affirming that it is our regarding the importance of preventing the and economy of the United States.’’ nation’s policy to prevent Iran from acquiring Government of Iran from acquiring a nuclear Well, this resolution is an important nuclear weapons capability and emphasize weapons capability.’’ This measure affirms that statement, clarifying congressional that containment is not a viable option. it is vital to our national interest to prevent Iran commitment to countering the Iranian Iran is developing the capability to quickly from acquiring weapons of mass destruction. It threat. However, our focus must be on produce a nuclear weapon at a time of its also makes clear that our time is limited and rapidly and dramatically ratcheting up choosing. Iran’s acquisition of such a capa- we must act to prevent Iran from acquiring full sanctions, without the glaring excep- bility would create a significant new regional nuclear weapons capability. As a Ranking tions that we now have, in order to put danger and be an immediate threat to Amer- Member of the Homeland Security Sub- our boot on the throat of this dan- ica’s interest and allies in the Middle East. committee on Transportation Security, I am gerous regime. A nuclear Iran would most likely trigger an well versed in the dangers posed by allowing arms race in the region that could de-stabilize countries who are against our interests to gain b 1820 an already fragile peace and threaten the nuclear weapons. I have always been and will We must compel the Iranian regime global economy. continue to be concerned for the average cit- to permanently and verifiably dis- It is imperative that our nation continue to izen of Iran. This measure is not a reflection mantle its nuclear program, abandon strengthen existing diplomatic and economic of the will of the average Iranian but a reflec- its unconventional and missile develop- pressure on Iran and force it to change course tion of the government which currently rep- ment programs, and end its support for before it is too late. resents them. H. Res. 568 represents our violent extremism. We do not want to Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise commitment to national security. look back, Mr. Speaker, and wish that today in strong support of H. Res. 568, ‘‘Ex- The United States of America should in- we had heeded the warning signs. pressing the sense of the House of Rep- crease economic and diplomatic pressure on We anxiously await the other body’s resentatives regarding the importance of pre- Iran to secure an agreement that includes: (1) strengthening and passage of com- venting the Government of Iran from acquiring the suspension of all uranium enrichment-re- panion legislation to the measures that a nuclear weapons capability.’’ As a member lated and reprocessing activities, (2) ensures the House passed months ago. We must of the Homeland Security Committee and a Iran’s complete cooperation with the Inter- meet our responsibility to the Amer- proud cosponsor of this resolution, I believe it national Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, regard- ican people and protect the security of is of critical importance to American security to ing their nuclear activities, and (3) a perma- our Nation, our allies, and the world continue dialogue with Iran. However, we must nent agreement that verifiably assures that from this threat of a nuclear capable also take a clear stance that the United States Iran’s nuclear program is entirely peaceful. Iran. will take the necessary steps to prevent Iran I support the Iranian people’s universal With that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back from obtaining nuclear weapons. human rights and access to inclusive, demo- the balance of my time. H. Res. 568 rejects the possibility of con- cratic representation. H. Res. 568 urges the Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to taining a nuclear Iran. If Iran is able to develop President to reaffirm the unacceptability of an voice my strong support for H. Res. 568. nuclear weapons, Tehran will be able to lever- Iran that has nuclear weapons capability. This This hi-partisan resolution signifies the im- age its new capabilities to secure its own piece of legislation calls for enforcing tougher portance of preventing the Government of Iran agenda at the expense of broader American sanctions against Iran. Iran has been involved from acquiring a nuclear weapons capability. interests. Such a program would also likely in the proliferation of weapons of mass de- I want to thank my friend from Florida, Con- spur other Middle Eastern countries to develop struction, whether they are nuclear or chem- gresswoman ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN, for intro- their own nuclear capabilities, leading to an ical or biological. ducing this resolution. arms race and massive instability. The devel- This timely piece of legislation addresses For over 20 years Iran has engaged in a opment of these weapons is not just bad for the need for the U.S. to take a strong stance sustained and well-documented pattern of de- the region. It is dangerous to the global com- against the aggressive and hostile behavior of ceptive activities to acquire a nuclear capa- munity. these three countries. These governments are bility outside of what can be considered for The United States has always maintained a not our friends. We must not underestimate peaceful use. strong relationship with the State of Israel and their ability to manufacture nuclear weapons. The UN Security Council has adopted a is committed to its security and prosperity. I The government of Iran, under its president number of resolutions since 2006 demanding was particularly alarmed to hear of top Iranian and leader, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, has pur- the suspension of uranium enrichment-related officials threatening to ‘‘wipe Israel off the sued policies undermining democracy and

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:29 May 16, 2012 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K15MY7.051 H15MYPT1 tjames on DSK6SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 15, 2012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2693 threatening regional security as well as our The question was taken. tion to suspend the rules and pass the own national security. The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the bill (H.R. 365) to encourage, enhance, Iran’s actions regarding its nuclear program opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being and integrate Blue Alert plans have been highly troublesome. Investigations in the affirmative, the ayes have it. throughout the United States in order conducted by the U.N.’s International Atomic Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, to disseminate information when a law Energy Agency, IAEA, have revealed that Iran on that I demand the yeas and nays. enforcement officer is seriously injured has been in violation of the Nuclear Non-pro- The yeas and nays were ordered. or killed in the line of duty, as amend- liferation Treaty time and time again. In 2003, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ed, on which the yeas and nays were or- Iran confirmed that there are sites in the cities ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- dered. of Natanz and Arak that are under construc- ceedings on this question will be post- The Clerk read the title of the bill. tion. But Iran insisted that these sites, like poned. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Bushehr, are designed to provide fuel for fu- f question is on the motion offered by ture power plants and nothing else. the gentleman from Texas (Mr. SMITH) Subsequent actions, however, have led us MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE that the House suspend the rules and to believe otherwise. Stemming from the most A message from the Senate by Ms. pass the bill, as amended. recent IAEA report, experts believe that, with Curtis, one of its clerks, announced The vote was taken by electronic de- further enrichment of its existing stockpile of that the Senate has passed without vice, and there were—yeas 394, nays 1, uranium, Iran already has enough raw material amendment a bill of the House of the not voting 36, as follows: to make two or three nuclear weapons. Even following title: though having the raw material is different [Roll No. 250] H.R. 2072. An act to reauthorize the Ex- YEAS—394 from having an actual weapon, Ahmedinejad’s port-Import Bank of the United States, and belligerent and hostile actions create an at- for other purposes. Adams Connolly (VA) Hahn mosphere dangerous to U.S. national security. Aderholt Cooper Hall f Akin Costa Hanabusa Iran also has a horrific human rights abuse Alexander Costello Hanna record. On December 26, 2011, the United RECESS Altmire Courtney Harper Nations General Assembly passed a resolu- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Amodei Cravaack Harris tion denouncing the serious human rights Andrews Crenshaw Hartzler ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair Austria Critz Hastings (FL) abuses occurring in Iran. declares the House in recess for a pe- Baca Crowley Hastings (WA) The resolution included torture, cruel and riod of less than 15 minutes. Bachmann Cuellar Hayworth degrading treatment in detention, the targeting Bachus Culberson Heck Accordingly (at 6 o’clock and 21 min- of human rights defenders, violence against Baldwin Cummings Heinrich utes p.m.), the House stood in recess. Barletta Davis (CA) Hensarling women, and ‘‘the systematic and serious re- Barrow Davis (IL) Herger strictions on freedom of peaceful assembly’’ f Bartlett Davis (KY) Herrera Beutler as well as severe restrictions on the rights to b 1830 Barton (TX) DeFazio Higgins ‘‘freedom of thought, conscience, religion or Bass (CA) DeGette Himes AFTER RECESS Bass (NH) DeLauro Hinojosa belief.’’ Becerra Denham Hirono The Iranian regime’s treatment of women is The recess having expired, the House Benishek Dent Hochul particularly heinous. Prominent human rights was called to order by the Speaker pro Berg DesJarlais Holden activist Shirin Ebadi, the 2003 Nobel Peace Berkley Deutch Holt tempore (Mr. WEST) at 6 o’clock and 30 Berman Diaz-Balart Honda Prize Laureate, has faced intensified persecu- minutes p.m. Biggert Dicks Hoyer tion from the Iranian government for her cou- Bilbray Dingell Huelskamp f rageous activism and efforts to promote wom- Bilirakis Doggett Huizenga (MI) PERMISSION TO FILE SUPPLE- Bishop (GA) Donnelly (IN) Hultgren en’s rights in Iran. Bishop (NY) Doyle Hunter On 21 December 2008, dozens of govern- MENTAL REPORT ON H.R. 4310, Bishop (UT) Dreier Hurt ment agents carried out a raid on the Defend- NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZA- Black Duffy Israel ers of Human Rights Center, run by Ms. TION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013 Blackburn Duncan (SC) Issa Ebadi. The Center provides legal assistance to Blumenauer Duncan (TN) Jackson (IL) Mr. BARTLETT. Mr. Speaker, I ask Bonamici Edwards Jackson Lee victims of human rights violations. unanimous consent that the Com- Bonner Ellison (TX) The raid on the Center occurred hours be- Bono Mack Ellmers Jenkins mittee on Armed Services be author- fore they were planning on holding an event Boren Emerson Johnson (GA) ized to file a supplemental report on there to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Boswell Engel Johnson (OH) the bill, H.R. 4310. Brady (PA) Eshoo Johnson, E. B. the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Brady (TX) Farenthold Johnson, Sam Center staff members and guests were har- Brooks Farr Jones objection to the request of the gen- assed and intimidated and the center was Broun (GA) Fattah Jordan forcibly closed. Later, officials identifying them- tleman from Maryland? Buchanan Fitzpatrick Kaptur There was no objection. Bucshon Fleischmann Keating selves as tax inspectors came to the Center to Buerkle Fleming Kelly remove documents and computers, despite f Burgess Forbes Kildee Ms. Ebadi’s protests that they contained pro- Burton (IN) Fortenberry Kind ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Butterfield Foxx King (IA) tected lawyer-client information. Ms. Ebadi has PRO TEMPORE Calvert Frelinghuysen King (NY) repeatedly been subjected to threats and in- Camp Gallegly Kingston timidation for the work she does. Occurrences The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Canseco Garamendi Kinzinger (IL) like this must stop. ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings Cantor Gardner Kissell will resume on motions to suspend the Capito Garrett Kline The United States’ relations with Iran have Capps Gerlach Kucinich been volatile and tumultuous for almost 60 rules previously postponed. Capuano Gibbs Lamborn years. We are engaging with a hostile regime Votes will be taken in the following Carnahan Gibson Lance that has not demonstrated a desire to com- order: Carney Gingrey (GA) Lankford H.R. 365, by the yeas and nays; Carson (IN) Gohmert Larsen (WA) promise or an ability to admit to its Carter Gonzalez Larson (CT) wrongdoings. Our focus now is to address the H.R. 3874, by the yeas and nays; Castor (FL) Goodlatte Latham security concerns in the region. H.R. 205, by the yeas and nays. Chabot Gosar LaTourette The first electronic vote will be con- Chaffetz Gowdy Latta The provisions put forth in this bill are vital Chandler Granger Lee (CA) to ensuring our nation’s security interests. ducted as a 15-minute vote. Remaining Chu Graves (GA) Levin Those who govern Iran must be held account- electronic votes will be conducted as 5- Cicilline Graves (MO) Lewis (CA) able for its actions. minute votes. Clarke (MI) Green, Al Lewis (GA) Clarke (NY) Green, Gene Lipinski The SPEAKER pro tempore. The f Clay Griffin (AR) LoBiondo question is on the motion offered by Cleaver Griffith (VA) Loebsack the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. NATIONAL BLUE ALERT ACT OF Clyburn Grijalva Lofgren, Zoe ROS-LEHTINEN) that the House suspend 2012 Coble Grimm Long Coffman (CO) Guinta Lowey the rules and agree to the resolution, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Cole Guthrie Lucas H. Res. 568, as amended. finished business is the vote on the mo- Conaway Gutierrez Luja´ n

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