Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott and Senator Tim Scott, along with a group of their colleagues, are urging the Biden administration to take action against Iran's nuclear activities at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors meeting. The senators emphasized the need for censuring Iran in light of recent developments regarding its nuclear program.

"In recent months, the Iranian regime has utilized its proxy network to disrupt global commerce and threaten our armed forces, while simultaneously increasing its stockpile of enriched uranium. The United States must demonstrate leadership at the IAEA and encourage the international community to uphold its non-proliferation standards. The stakes could not be higher," stated the senators in their letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

The senators also highlighted Iran's history of destabilizing behavior in the region, pointing out that the regime's actions have intensified in recent years. They emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear and consistent standard of institutional treatment toward Iran's nuclear advances to prevent further escalation.

Furthermore, the senators called on the U.S. delegation at the IAEA to advocate for Iran's nuclear program to be formally referred to the United Nations Security Council for review. They cautioned against offering special treatment to Iran in hopes of de-escalating the situation, citing past instances where appeasement led to further aggression.

Senator Rick Scott and his colleagues have requested a response from Secretary of State Blinken by March 11, 2024, regarding the U.S. stance on pursuing a censure resolution against Iran. They seek clarity on the administration's plan for preventing rogue nuclear programs in other countries and whether any concessions were made by Iran to avoid censure.

The full text of the senators' letter to Secretary Blinken can be accessed for further details.