Iran’s nuclear ambition is one of great concern to Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ. We appreciate the hard work and diplomatic efforts of the Obama administration, as part of the P5+1, to reach an agreement with Iran to curtail its nuclear weapons program. However, there is still much work to be done by the international community before a truly meaningful deal is reached.

As work proceeds towards a final status agreement in June, we strongly advocate for a final agreement that is verifiable, wherein Iran agrees to NOT build a nuclear weapon, to dismantle its ability to enrich uranium, and ceases its threats of annihilation against Israel. Federation has long considered the prospect of Iran obtaining nuclear weapons to be a matter of the gravest concern and utmost urgency. Such a development would present an existential threat to Israel, pose a danger to U.S. national security, and threaten countless human lives.

Additionally, the negotiators must ensure that a robust, fully verifiable inspection program is agreed to; with severe and immediate consequences should Iran breach the agreement. We have witnessed Iran’s pattern of protracted negotiations and un-kept commitments to inspections. We believe that sanctions should not be lifted until compliance is verifiable and that long-term commitments are kept.

Knowing that the President of the United States and the Prime Minister of Israel have a shared goal of preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, they should work together to end this real and present threat to both countries. We strongly urge that there be a renewed commitment by Congress to work together with the President in a bipartisan fashion with the shared goal of alleviating the threat of a nuclear Iran. As we approach this weekend of sacred observance and family gatherings, let us come together for the common good of the United States, for Israel, and the entire world.