[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 73 (Wednesday, May 22, 2013)]
[Senate]
[Page S3711]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                                  IRAN

  Ms. COLLINS. Madam President, I understand that Senator Baldwin is on 
her way to make her maiden speech, and I promise I will stop talking 
the moment she enters the Chamber. I thank my colleague from Colorado.
  Later today, the Senate will vote on a resolution that has been 
introduced by Senators Menendez and Graham. I am pleased to join my 
Senate colleagues in cosponsoring this resolution, which reaffirms our 
commitment to a strong U.S.-Israeli relationship and to preventing Iran 
from becoming a nuclear power.
  At this time in our history, it is more important than ever that we 
demonstrate a firm commitment to our allies--even if the neighborhood 
they are in looks more like a tinderbox than it has in decades. This 
resolution reaffirms that the United States will be a reliable friend 
and a determined ally, even in dangerous times--indeed, especially in 
dangerous times.
  We are at a critical juncture in our efforts to prevent Iran from 
obtaining a nuclear weapons capability. During my time in the Senate, I 
have repeatedly supported legislation imposes sanctions on Iran and 
puts pressure on the regime to change course. I worked with my good 
friend former-Senator Lieberman to pass legislation which ensures that 
organizations that inspect commercial ships for the U.S. government are 
not also providing services to governments like Iran that sponsor 
terrorism.
  This resolution reiterates the significance that we place on keeping 
the full force of sanctions on Iran.
  In the face of an existential threat to our country, the American 
people would expect the U.S. to take action. This resolution says that 
we will support Israel's right to do the same.
  Let me read the powerful language in the resolution. Congress 
``declares that the United States has a vital national interest in, and 
unbreakable commitment to, ensuring the existence, survival, and 
security of the State of Israel, and reaffirms United States support 
for Israel's right to self-defense.''
  Congress ``urges that, if the Government of Israel is compelled to 
take military action in legitimate self-defense against Iran's nuclear 
weapons program, the United States Government should stand with Israel 
and provide, in accordance with United States law and the 
constitutional responsibility of Congress to authorize the use of 
military force, diplomatic, military, and economic support to the 
Government of Israel in its defense of its territory, people, and 
existence.''
  I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in the United 
States Senate as well as with President Obama to close the loopholes in 
current sanctions legislation and to ensure that the cooperation that 
has existed between the United States and the State of Israel for over 
60 years remains steadfast and unshakeable.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Wisconsin is recognized.
  Ms. BALDWIN. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent to speak in 
morning business for as much time as I may consume.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

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