“If Iran fails to comply with the terms of our agreement, our intel community, our Energy Department which is responsible for nuclear weaponry, are absolutely clear that we will quickly know it, and we will be able to respond accordingly with every option available to us today,” Kerry said.
On July 14, Iran and the P5+1 countries comprised of the United States, Russia, China, France and the United Kingdom plus Germany, reached a comprehensive agreement setting parameters on Tehran’s nuclear program. The agreement eases international sanctions against Iran in return for the country scaling back its nuclear program and ensuring its peaceful nature.
During the hearing, US Congressman Elliot Engel raise a concern that the Islamic Republic could continue with its enrichment activities to create a nuclear bomb.
“When it comes to verification and monitoring, there’s absolutely no sunset in this agreement. Not in ten years, not in 15 years, not in 20 years, not in 25 years. No sunset ever,” Kerry added.
The US Congress has now less than 60 days to fully review the nuclear agreement with Tehran, during which time US President Barack Obama cannot waive or suspend congressional sanctions against Iran that are currently in place. Obama can veto the bill if the deal is rejected, which in turn can be overridden by a two-thirds majority in Congress.
