Subject: Iran riff
From: Dan Schwerin <[email-masked]>
To: Jake Sullivan <[email-masked]>, Laura Rosenberger <[email-masked]>, John Podesta <[email-masked]>
Date: Thu, 13 Aug 2015 14:59:26 -0400

But before we get into the politics, I want to say a few words about one of
the most important decisions we face today.

Across our country, Americans are considering and debating the nuclear
agreement with Iran.  Soon, it will come up for a vote in Congress.  There
are people of good faith on both sides of this issue, people who are
committed to protecting our security and the security of our allies,
especially Israel.

President Obama and Secretary Kerry have worked hard to achieve this
agreement and they are making passionate arguments for why it will keep us
safe and close off avenues for Iran to get a bomb. Others, like my friend
Senator Schumer, are deeply skeptical.  I respect their concerns.  I have
no illusions about Iran’s true intentions or its continuing threat to
Israel, the region, and the United States.   That threat is real and it
must be confronted.

But leadership is about hard choices.  And to me, this one is clear.   This
agreement is the most effective path to prevent Iran from acquiring a
nuclear weapon.  There is no viable alternative.  None.  I support
President Obama and I encourage everyone in Congress to do the same.

As Secretary of State, I logged tens of thousands of miles and twisted a
lot of arms to build a global coalition to impose the most crippling
sanctions in history.  That unprecedented pressure delivered a blow to
Iran’s economy and gave us leverage at the negotiating table, starting in
Oman in 2012.  We need to bring the same determination and unity to the job
of enforcing this agreement and deterring Iranian aggression across the
board.  When this debate is over, we need to come together to ensure the
President has the tools, resources, and support to send a clear message to
Iran:  Cheat, and you will pay.  When you threaten Israel, you threaten
America.  And make no mistake, we will never allow you to acquire a nuclear
weapon; not just during the term of this agreement -- never.